Man charged over scams targeting elderly residents

A man will appear in court today charged with money laundering offences.

In September 2023, detectives from Campsie Police Area Command were alerted by South Australian Police that internet scams targeting elderly people using fraudulent accounts had allegedly been opened in the Campsie area.

About 7am Wednesday 31 January 2024 police executed a search warrant on a home in Wilbur Street, Greenacre and arrested a 44-year-old man.

He was taken to Campsie Police station and charged with knowingly deal with proceeds of crime intent to conceal.

He was refused bail to appear before Bankstown Local Court yesterday (Thursday 1 February 2024).

Detective Superintendent Gordon Arbinja, Commander of the State Crime Command’s Financial Crimes Squad said this recent arrest should remind the public to remain vigilant when it comes to online and phone scammers.

“Don’t be pressured into making quick decisions over the phone. Talk to a family member or friend if you are concerned about requests” Det Supt Arbinja said.

“Double check the identity of the person calling and the organisation they represent and say I will call you back. If in doubt hang up the phone.”

“Be cautious when sharing any personal information over the phone or online. Read any contract or service paperwork carefully before paying for any work.”

“Avoid accessing emails from senders you don’t know or trust and beware of ‘cold calls’ and confirm who you are talking to.”

“Always contact your bank, financial institution or service provider if you think you have been contacted by a scammer.”

/Public Release. View in full here.