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Local businesses warned against rising rates of fraud

Farmers and rural small businesses are being asked to be especially cautious when purchasing heavy equipment. The alert follows a significant increase in fraud targeting local businesses. According to ACCC’s latest Scamwatch data, these companies lost him more than $1.2 million to scammers between January 1, 2022 and his August 31, 2022. This is an increase of more than 20% compared to the same period last year.

The most common scams targeting farmers involve selling tractors and heavy equipment, with more than $1 million in losses so far this year. These scammers can do things like present sales contracts, answer questions about the potential sale of machines over the phone or by email, or offer a free trial period once money is deposited into an escrow account. There are more sophisticated ways to deceive victims.

ACCC Vice-Chairman Mick Keogh said, “Scammers are trying to sell seemingly great deals for tractors and other agricultural machinery online through fake websites and fake advertisements placed on legitimate platforms and publications. The trade is relentlessly luring farmers and local businesses.” “Unfortunately, there has been a worrying rise in agricultural fraud in recent years as more and more agricultural businesses purchase equipment online. causing a blow.

“Scammers are very clever in how they impersonate businesses. For example, some fake websites contain ABNs. We strongly urge you to do additional checks to make sure it doesn’t,” said Keogh. Added.

Farmers and small business owners should remember to look up the business address first and call nearby businesses to verify the existence of the business so the seller can verify their identity. .

“Many scams are uncovered by searching the internet for the exact wording of the ad. Never click on links provided by sellers or pay in advance, even if you are promised a refund. “Pay upon delivery or pickup. If possible, inspect the machine in person or via live video first. Scammers often make excuses as to why they cannot inspect the machine in person. This is a red flag for buyers.

“Scammers may advertise the machine for less than the typical market price,” Keogh added. If it looks like, or feels pressured in any way, it could be a scam.”

Farmers and small business owners are strongly advised not to provide too much personal information as scammers target more than money.

“Legitimate sellers only ask for enough information to deliver the item you ordered, so don’t give out too much personal information over the phone or online as you may be a victim of identity theft. is important,” says Keogh.

If you have provided personal information and are concerned that you have been scammed, we encourage you to contact IDCARE immediately through idcare.org.

Businesses are also encouraged to learn how to report fraud and get help on the Scamwatch website (scamwatch.gov.au), regardless of whether they have suffered a loss.

Local businesses warned against rising rates of fraud

Source link Local businesses warned against rising rates of fraud

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