Be on the alert for scammers

They're out there (play 'Jaws' theme music here). It's tempting to believe that every person or company you deal with has the same values and integrity as you, but the painful truth is that this is naïve in the global marketplace. Sadly, there is no shortage of unscrupulous types who are prepared to trick you into handing over your money and providing nothing in return - except perhaps an email address that bounces back your emails and a website address that no longer leads anywhere.

The modern consumer needs to be critical and informed about the Twenty First Century marketplace, especially the online environment. Being taken in by these creatures can be humiliating, as well as expensive. That's why you need to stay on your toes. Here are some Golden Rules for avoiding the scammers' clever traps:

• If it seems to good to be true, then it probably is.
• Be critical, use your common sense - the offer may be a scam. It can happen to you.
• If the offer involves a lot of money, time or other investment from you - get independent advice first. Talk to a financial adviser, an accountant or a lawyer - anyone who will represent your interests with an unbiased eye.
• There is no such thing as a get-rich-quick scheme that works. These schemes either involve  unacceptably high risk, or are outright fraud. The only people making money are the scammers and fraudsters. Stay away from them.
• Scammers will pressure you to decide and commit immediately. Under no circumstances give in to them. Get the offer in writing, and take it away for independent advice. You should be highly suspicious if they don't like you insisting on this.
• Never send money or provide credit card details to any person or organisation you don't know and trust. This goes for establishing a level of comfort with online traders too - such as confirming their physical address and contact details prior to committing.
• Always check your credit card and bank statements thoroughly, and report any irregularities immediately.

If you want further information, or wish to report anything suspicious, contact the following organisations:

• For interstate or international scams contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 305 502, or visit their website at www.accc.gov.au and follow the links to report a scam.

• For financial and investment scams contact the Australian Securities and Investment Commission on 1300 300 630.

• For local scams contact your state office of fair trading or consumer affairs.

(This article is based on advice published by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. For more information visit their website at www.accc.gov.au ).