Australians beware: scammers take advantage of disasters
Westpac is urging Australians to be extra careful amid new concerns the unfolding floods disaster in Queensland and New South Wales could lead to a spike in scams.
Westpac’s General Manager of Fraud Prevention and Financial Crime, Chris Whittingham, has warned individuals and businesses that scammers often exploit disastrous events to take advantage of unsuspecting victims.
“Time and time again, following a significant event or natural disaster, we see an increase in people being duped by scams, for example, after the devastating 2020 bushfires.
“This is a tactic fraudsters have continued to adopt throughout the pandemic where scams have almost tripled, exploiting the hearts and wallets of those experiencing hardship, or who have sought out items in high demand, like Rapid Antigen Tests.
“With the current floods crisis, scammers will try to take advantage of Australians’ generosity and support by setting up fake donation sites, or even posing as insurers, businesses or government organisations offering help to the victims themselves.
“We are urging people to be on high alert to the possibility of scams and closely check that any websites or charitable organisations are legitimate before sending funds or your personal information,” said Mr Whittingham.
Westpac has launched a $2 million fund to help small businesses impacted by the floods in Queensland and New South Wales access financial help.
Eligible small business customers can apply for $3,000 in cash grants per customer group to help with urgent expenses or repairs by contacting their banker or calling our customer support teams.
