If you come across something that you are concerned might be a scam, contact Seniors Enquiry Line to talk it over on 1300 135 500 or (07) 3867 2500.
In 2021, Australians reported losing $1.76 billion to scams. This is almost a billion increase from 2020.
There are a vast number of scams, with new ones emerging all the time. However, many of them have similar approaches and techniques. It is vital that we remain informed about current scams and put protections in place to reduce the risk of losing money or personal information.
Information and Referral Support
Some scams, you can immediately identify that it is a scam so you delete the text message or email; hang up the phone and don’t give it a second thought. Some scams though are so convincing and plausible that you may not be sure how to proceed.
Not everyone is confident in their ability to investigate whether something is a scam or not. Or you may just want a second opinion or reassurance.
In these cases, contact the Seniors Enquiry Line on 1300 135 500 or sel@uccommunity.org.au We can discuss your concerns and provide you with the information you need to work out whether it is a scam or not. If you have lost personal information or money to a scam, we can support you to work out a plan and link you in with support services who can help.
Scams Community Education
Did you know that the Seniors Enquiry Line offers free community education around scams and online safety? If your social group, community centre or village is located within South East Queensland, we may be able to facilitate in person information sessions. We are also able to provide virtual information sessions through ZOOM. The Seniors Enquiry Line also created resources and can provide articles for use in newsletters. For more information about our scams community education, please call 1300 135 500 or email us at sel@uccommunity.org.au
Useful resources
These websites and resources have information about scams, how to recognise them, and how to protect yourself:
- Scamwatch
- Stay Smart Online
- Office of Fair Trading (Queensland)
- eSafety Commissioner
- Little Black Book of Scams