Scams through BUC email contacts (and everywhere else!).
Scams through BUC email contacts (and everywhere else!).
In the last week, several people at the BUC have been targeted with email based scams. It is deeply unfortunate that such scams are becoming more prevalent throughout our community. It is a big business! They particularly target people who are uncertain about technology, as well as those with generous and concerned natures.
If you receive an email from someone you know that looks in any way odd or out of character, please contact the person by phone to confirm as well as deleting the email from both your inbox and your bin folder. If you do respond, the scammers can harvest the email addresses in your contact list and send further emails in the hope someone will respond and send money.
It is so easy to be fooled by these groups and if you have responded, you are one of many (I was scammed with a fraudulent online shopping site earlier this year, and I’m usually pretty good at spotting them). If you are uncertain about any emails that have come from church members, feel free to contact the office if you need assistance. I have added some details below and its worth taking a look at the link to the scam watch web site to arm yourself with knowledge. In this instance, knowledge is certainly part of the tool kit of personal power and prevention.
Peta Workman
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM BEING SCAMMED!!
Scams work because they look like the real thing and catch you off guard when you’re not expecting it.
Scammers take advantage of new technology, new products or services and major events. They use them to create believable stories that convince you to give them your money or personal details.
Always stop, think and check before you act. Scammers rely on you not spotting these warning signs because you’re in a hurry, you don’t want to miss something that looks like a great deal, or because it seems like it’s from someone you trust.
1. STOP – Don’t give money or personal information to anyone if unsure
2. THINK – Ask yourself could the message or call be fake?
3. PROTECT – Act quickly if something feels wrong.
For more information on types of scams, latest news, etc go to Scamwatch: https://www.scamwatch.gov.ay .