Beware of fake loan websites

Are you looking for a short-term loan before Christmas? Police are warning the public to be wary of fake loan websites aimed at stealing your identity.

Police are receiving reports that people applying for loans online are being told they’ve been approved, then being asked for copies of their driver licence, Medicare card, passport and bank account details only to discover they aren’t getting a loan and this is actually a phishing scam.

Phishing scams are attempts by scammers to trick you into giving out personal information such as your bank account numbers, passwords, credit card numbers and identity documents. Once the scammers have these details and documents they can use them to carry out fraudulent activities and crimes.

R U in Control of your identification documentation. Always be vigilant about protecting your personal information and be suspicious of anyone offering you easy money – consider what’s the catch?

Members of the public can learn about scams:

  • at www.scamwatch.gov.au
  • through the Queensland Police Service’s R U in Control campaign, a fraud and cybercrime disruption and prevention program.

Scams can be reported to ReportCyber.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.

You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.

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