General News
26 April, 2024
On the beat
Warracknabeal Police are concerned about the increase in fraud-related crimes, particularly in phone and social media scams, and want to remind locals to be cautious about what information they share.
Senior Constable Lauren Cole said they have received two reports through scamwatch and are currently investigating three others, while two other local scam-related cases were forwarded to interstate authorities for further investigation before Christmas.
Scammers are now reaching out to their victims in various ways, including via text or SMS, phone calls, email, social media, websites, and even in-person.
Sergeant Kylie Newell said there is no specific group of people being targeted and that everyone should remain aware.
"Everyone is at risk of being scammed," Sgt Kylie Newell said.
"When a scam is reported to police, they will provide you with a fraud pack which requires you to provide all the information that you have.
"When you return it to the station you will be asked to provide a statement and police will then commence an investigation.
Scams can pose as a range of legitimate goods and services, such as romantic connections, investment, product and service, threats and extortion, jobs and employment, unexpected money and impersonation.
Sgt Newell said investigations take time, and the money can not always be recovered.
"Please be patient, as the banks are backed up with requests for information and this can sometimes take months.”
For more information, visit https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/