Login
iscover
Share this article on:
Powered by
MOMENTUM
MEDIA
Powered by MOMENTUMMEDIA
Click Frenzy Mayhem is coming up and it’s a great day to grab a bargain – and it’s a great day for scammers, too.
It is a big day for bargain hunters on 13 May, with the online Australian retail event Click Frenzy Mayhem due to spark interest and drive sales across the country.
But as with any big online sales event, scammers will be out in force, too, hoping to trick consumers into parting with their hard-earned cash.
“For scammers, major sale events like Click Frenzy present the perfect opportunity to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers,” Ruth Talalla, ANZ scams portfolio lead said in a statement.
“It is crucial to stay vigilant. We encourage customers to take a moment before making any online purchases to ensure that they are buying from legitimate and secure websites.”
Consumers should be on the lookout for common scam tactics, from unsolicited emails and messages to demanding personal information in return for an apparent bargain price on an item. Actual retailers will not ask for personal data in such a way.
Shoppers should also watch out for fake websites and brand impersonators. Double-check all sales sites before making any purchases and make sure any payment methods are secure before committing to a purchase.
It’s also worth checking Scamwatch for the latest scam campaigns and trends.
“If something feels too good to be true, it probably is. While heavily discounted items can be tempting and exciting, it’s important to cross-check whether or not it’s a genuine sale,” Tallala said.
“Read reviews, consider the requested payment method, and remember that a legitimate organisation will not ask you for personal information.”
What to do if you’re a victim of a scam
Situations such as this can be upsetting. If you, or someone you know, needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. They provide 24/7 support services.
David Hollingworth has been writing about technology for over 20 years, and has worked for a range of print and online titles in his career. He is enjoying getting to grips with cyber security, especially when it lets him talk about Lego.
Be the first to hear the latest developments in the cyber industry.
