Australians who have been impacted by the devastating floods that battered the countries east coast, now have something else to worry about – scammers.
As many begin cleaning up and picking up the pieces after their businesses and homes were destroyed, many have begun making insurance claims.
However, now there are reports of scammers trying to take advantage of those impacted by the floods.
Pumicestone MP Ali King said she received a text from an alleged scammer, claiming they would help with her insurance claim following the floods.
The only problem – she didn’t apply for a claim.
“I got a text today from someone assigned to help me with my insurance claim. I don’t have an insurance claim,” she said on social media.
Labor MP for Whitlam, Stephen Jones, also took to social media to slam the alleged scammer.
“We’ve seen the best of Australia in the huge outpouring of support for those affected by these devastating floods,” he said on Twitter.
“But scammers posing as insurance agents are looking to exploit people trying to pick up the pieces of their lives.”
An ACCC spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au it was still early days and they were yet to see reports about scams related to the floods, but urged Australians to remain cautious.
How to protect yourself
The ACCC said Australians should take note of several things to protect themselves from scams:
- Don’t click on hyperlinks in text/social media messages or emails, even if it appears to come from a trusted source.
- Never…