The NT Police Cybercrime Unit is urging people to be wary of frauds currently impacting Territorians.
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The past week has seen increased reports where NT residents have been victims of online criminal activities including ATO fraud, business email compromises, romance and investment frauds.
Financial losses for the victims have ranged from $5600 to in excess of $200,000, police said.
In previous years, the period approaching the Christmas break has been associated with an increased risk of cybercrime.
Police said the recent growth in reports suggests this year will follow that trend.
Police encourage people to consider the following:
- · if you receive a call demanding money, hang up and if necessary call the agency back on a known number. The ATO will never require payment in gift cards or threaten you with immediate arrest;
- · if you receive any email correspondence about changed bank account or payment details, confirm through a phone call using a known number or by meeting the other party before making any payment;
- · do not pay money to someone you have not met in person, this includes people you have met online through dating websites or investment forums.
Anyone who has lost money through cybercrime is encouraged to report the matter to their financial institution and to police through the Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network at www.acorn.gov.au or by calling 131 444.
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