Please be aware of scammers targeting people in the wake of floods impacting South East Queensland and New South Wales, and major events like the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
3 March 2022
A reminder to be on the lookout for scammers trying to exploit people in the wake of natural disasters and major events like the recent flood events across Queensland and New South Wales, and the evolving situation in Ukraine.
Not only do these scams cost you money, they also divert much needed donations away from legitimate charities and causes.
Scammers often impersonate legitimate charities, government agencies, financial institutions, insurers or charity groups. Their goal is to steal your personal information and money by taking advantage of the vulnerable, and of your generosity and compassion to help others in need.
They follow disasters closely and target individuals and associated groups that have been impacted, or who want to support recovery efforts. Tactics may include asking for donations via phone, text message, email or social media, or asking you to provide details to access an insurance or benefit claim.
While we will provide whatever assistance we can to members who have fallen victim to scams, unfortunately the likelihood of recovering lost funds is remote and cannot be guaranteed.
As always, if you have concerns about the security of your Heritage account, please contact us immediately on 13 14 22.
More online security tips from Heritage are available here. You can also visit Australian Consumer and Competition Commission’s Scamwatch for helpful information on how to recognise, avoid and report scams.