Australians Lose $15.5 Million to Remote Access Scams
Australia’s consumer law regulator, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), has issued a warning about the rising losses due to remote access scams. These scams involve criminals gaining unauthorized access to victims’ personal devices and accounts. In 2023, Australians reported losing a staggering $15.5 million to remote access scams, and this figure increased by 52% in the first quarter of 20241.
Here’s how these scams typically work:
- Initial Contact: Scammers often impersonate well-known companies and contact victims, usually over the phone. They convince victims that there is an issue with their online account, phone, or computer.
- Gaining Access: The scammer tricks the victim into downloading software or a mobile app, granting them access to the victim’s device.
- Bank Account Access: Once inside, the scammer seeks access to banking or other accounts. They may ask for banking passwords and security codes.
- Draining Bank Accounts: While victims may not immediately notice money being stolen, their accounts can be drained later on.
One victim reported being called by scammers claiming to represent the National Broadband Network (NBN). The scammers gained access to the victim’s PC and transferred money from their Commonwealth Bank account to an AMP account. Despite a lengthy discussion, the bank could only compensate 50% of the losses1.
The ACCC Deputy Chair, Catriona Lowe, expressed concern that scammers are draining entire bank accounts. She advises consumers never to download software or apps based on phone instructions and to hang up instead1.
In related news, five Australians were among 37 individuals arrested globally in connection with a phishing scam that targeted tens of thousands of people. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) played a crucial role in apprehending the suspects2.
Stay vigilant, protect your personal information, and be cautious when dealing with unexpected requests related to your devices or accounts. Remember, scammers are always looking for new ways to exploit unsuspecting victims. Some points to look out for when trying to discern whether real or scammer:
- Emails – Scam emails will have an urgent action attached to them, must respond in 24 hours or less, they will also include a link to click on.
- – if you have a look at the sent from address you will clearly see that it is a bizzare email address, or even a gmail address however banks or other large companies do not use gmail or strange addressess so this is a complete give away.
- Internet Pop ups – never click on a page while browsing the internet that tells you your computer is infected – this is always sucpicious
- Cold calls – just hang up on these if you think the call is real, hang up, retrieve your bill and call them using the contact number off your bill.
If you have been scammed or have given them have some control of your computer or phone please consider calling us to clean your computer and / or replace your hard drive depending on the severity of the scam. REMEMBER to change all passwords and call your bank.
Learn more
ia.acs.org.au abc.net.au itwire.com4au. finance.yahoo.com