‘Tis the season to be wary of scams

As Australians head into the summer break, Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones has urged Christmas shoppers to be extra wary of potential scams.

From suspicious links in emails or texts to impersonating family members, Mr Jones asserted that scammers use a variety of techniques to prey on consumers during busy times of the year.

The top 5 scams to avoid this Christmas include:

1. Online shopping scams

Scammers often pose as “new” online toy retailers around the Christmas period, Mr Jones explained.

He advised that consumers should shop with trusted websites and always pay securely with a credit card or online payment services like PayPal.

2. Delivery scams

This year, you may have received a suspicious link via email or text detailing that a parcel is ready for delivery.

According to the Assistant Treasurer, clicking on these links allows scammers to hack into the consumer’s phone.

These scams can be difficult to gauge the authenticity of during busy shopping periods like Christmas, and Mr Jones warned to always proceed with caution.

3. ‘Unwanted present’ scams

Scammers are known to place unwanted presents “for sale” ads over the Christmas period.

Australian consumers should exclusively buy from reputable online auction sites, the assistant treasurer said.

4. ‘Hi mum’ scams

Similarly to delivery scams, scammers reach out by email or text and impersonate family members claiming to have lost their phones.

Mr Jones advised that communicating via voice call to authenticate any claim of a lost phone is an easy way to combat these scams.

5. Puppy Scams

Fake online puppy sales can “break hearts and bank balances” according to the Assistant Treasurer.

He encouraged consumers to adopt a dog from the RSPCA or buy only from reputed breeders, and stay clear of suspicious ads.