22 November, 2023
Seniors warned to watch for scams
Queensland seniors are being warned to be alert to scam websites or text messages when shopping online for bargains.
Scammers are mimicking popular Australian fashion and footwear labels and paying for their fake websites to be at the top of online search lists, the National Anti-Scam Centre has warned.
Scam websites may try and charge an application or priority fee or ask for multiple forms of personal identification including seniors’ bank details.
Many of these websites look legitimate, but once people enter their information it can then be used for fraudulent activity.
The State Government funds critical services to prevent Elder Abuse, including $7.2 million to provide Seniors Legal and Support Services in 16 locations around the state which provide social support and legal advice.
The Toowoomba Seniors Legal Support Service is at 223 Hume Street South Toowoomba.
The local telephone number is 4616 9700.
In addition, a Scams and Fraud Awareness service is delivered through the Seniors Enquiry Line on 1300 135 500.
Seniors Minister Craig Crawford said scammers are faking top-selling labels and paying for their fake websites to appear at the top of an internet search.
“Seniors can’t afford to fall victim to these scams when every single dollar is precious,” Mr Crawford said.
“We want grandparents who might be buying gifts for grandkids online to be extra vigilant to scam websites as the Christmas sales really kick off.
“Taking advantage of our elderly residents is awful and we are working in partnership with Cyber Security to ensure these sites are shut down as quickly as possible.
“I want all Queensland seniors to be aware that the Seniors Card is completely free and only available through the Queensland Government, we do not accept third-party applications.
“Any seniors that believe they have been scammed should report it immediately.”
“Seniors are saving thousands every year through generous concessions from the Palaszczuk Government and through the Seniors Card, and we want to keep those savings in their pockets.”
The Seniors Card is free of charge and applicants are never asked to pay a fee or provide personal identification such as bank or credit card details.
If you need to apply for a Seniors Card it is available directly from the Queensland Government, and there are a number of ways to apply, including through the official website at www.qld.gov.au/seniorscard or by calling 13 QGOV
(13 74 68).
If you believe you have encountered fraudulent activity of any kind, you can report it at www.scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam
Seniors who have already made a payment to a scam website should contact their financial institution and report a fraudulent transaction.
