Image of person using laptop and phone

My story

I was contacted by phone. The perpetrator was able to convince me that he was working for Telstra and that my internet (IP address) had been compromised. I was to help him by sending money overseas. This trap would catch the 'hackers'. He would deposit money into my savings account. I would then use that money to send overseas via MoneyGram at the local 7-Eleven Store. It was important that I did no internet banking during this time for security reasons. I did this several times until I became suspicious and checked my bank balances. He had been getting cash advances on my credit card and depositing the money into my savings account. I immediately reported to the bank.

Signs this was a scam

  • The victim was phoned out of the blue by a caller claiming to be from a large and trusted organisation.
  • The caller claimed the victim’s computer was compromised. He also asked for account details and convinced the victim to send money overseas.

Avoid this type of scam

  • Hang up on the caller.
  • Refuse any request for remote access.
  • Refuse to provide personal or bank account information to the caller.
  • Refuse to transfer money from your account.

 

*The story above is based on one or more real scam reports received by the ACCC. For privacy purposes the names and images of victims have not been used.

Have you been scammed?

If you think you've been scammed or know someone who has, report it to the ACCC using our report a scam page.

If you have lost money, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Contacting the bank through a telephone

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