Media Release
Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity
Government reminds consumers to protect themselves from scams
Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy, Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, today welcomed the launch of the Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce's two-week fraud awareness initiative, Fraud Fortnight.
Running from 24 February to 8 March 2008, Fraud Fortnight aims to raise awareness about deceptive and seductive scams and educate people on how to report them.
“Fraud Fortnight reminds consumers that ‘SCAMS TARGET YOU! Protect Yourself',” Senator Conroy said.
“Fraud Fortnight is a timely reminder to consumers that scams can come in many forms including mail, email, telephone, over the internet and door-to-door.”
Many Australians have been the recipients of scams through mobile phones and these types of scams are on the increase.
“Mobile phone scams are increasingly sophisticated in their design and can be difficult to recognise,” Senator Conroy said.
“They might come from somebody who talks to you as if they know you or from a ‘missed call' from an unknown number that you redial. They could even be upfront about what they are promoting, but have hidden charges.”
The Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce is distributing fact sheets and brochures during Fraud Fortnight to educate consumers on what to do if they are faced with a potential scam.
“Consumers should always check the details through a web search, or call the organisation back through a known number. Never use the organisation's contact details given by the person requesting the information,” Senator Conroy said.
“A simple way to remember is ‘if in doubt, don't give it out'.”
To find out more about scams and to report scams visit www.scamwatch.gov.au or call SCAMwatch on 1300 795 995.
Fraud Fortnight is an initiative of the Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce. Established in March 2005, the Taskforce is comprised of 18 federal and state government regulatory agencies and departments that have a responsibility for consumer protection in relation to frauds and scams.
ends
Date: 26 February 2008
Contact: Tim Marshall 02 6277 7480
