Three scams you need to be aware of this summer

Scammers are targeting Queenslanders at an alarming rate, with some fraudsters swindling parents out of thousands of dollars with an incredibly cruel hoax.

‘Tis the season to be jolly … and to be the target of scammers, unfortunately.

According to Scamwatch, over 40,000 scams have been reported in Queensland this year. Three particular scams targeting Queenslanders are making the rounds this festive season. We’ve outlined some of the biggest scams currently operating at the moment and what you need to be wary of.

The Linkt scam. Picture: Supplied

Linkt

Some Queenslanders may have received text messages claiming their most recent bill from Linkt is overdue.

Within the message there is a clickable link or a url you need to copy into your internet browser.

The goal is to get you to enter your payment details on fake website.

It will most likely look similar to the actual Linkt payment portal, but once your card information is entered scammers can take your information.

To check if this message is legitimate make sure you log in to your Linkt account and don’t click any links sent through text message.

Watch out for spelling mistakes as overdue bill text messages are generally automated with most companies.

The marketplace scam. Picture: Supplied

Facebook Marketplace/Online Garage Sales

Scammers attack both buyers and sellers on Facebook marketplace.

The safest way to pay for something on Facebook marketplace is with cash, and by exchanging goods in person.

If you are selling something second-hand and the buyer is willing to purchase it sight unseen with PayPal, PayID, Cash App or Western Union you might be dealing with a scammer. Similarly, if you are purchasing something online and it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

This scam works because people often sell things lying around the house, or buy last minute gifts at this time of year. Scammers take advantage of the seller/buyer wanting a quick sale/purchase and attempt to provide an ‘easy option’.

Best case: you let a bargain slip by, worst case: you lose a lot of money.

The 'Hi Mum' scam. Picture: Supplied

‘Hi Mum’

Mums and dads, this one is for you.

If you receive a text message from your child informing you that their old phone was submerged in water and they had to get a new number: Do not respond.

The first thing to do is to contact your child (on the phone number listed in your contact list) and ensure they haven’t replaced their phone.

Scammers play upon the vulnerabilities of older members of society.

This scam is particularly cruel as requests made from the new number often ask for money to help out with bills, which at this time of the year, isn’t completely out of the realm of possibility.