It looks like Aussie scammers are at it again.
Police allege a new scam in South Australia has seen scammers impersonating police and demanding payments via a portable EFTPOS machine. Here’s what we know.
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According to SA police, the victim reported receiving an automated phone message from the Australian Tax Office (ATO) on October 14. The call alleged he had a warrant out for his arrest for owning money to them.
He suspected it was a scam and called back to check. It’s alleged 30 minutes later, two men showed up at his house in North Adelaide wearing navy blue jackets with the words ‘Federal Police’ on the back.
The men then whipped out an EFTPOS machine demanding the victim pay the owing debt but when asked for identification, they apparently fled the property.
Luckily, no money was reported to be stolen.
Police are investigating a scam after two men impersonating federal officers tried to extort money from an Adelaide couple yesterday and want to warn the public. The men claimed the victim had a tax debt https://t.co/dNs3CouFBc
— South Australia Police (@SAPoliceNews) October 14, 2019
SA police have said one man is in his late 20s while the other is in his 40s with a strong U.S. accent and were last spotted in the Salisbury Downs area in northern Adelaide. Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Should I assume every federal police officer is a scammer now?
If you have reason to suspect someone is not who they claim to be, there are always ways to check if the situation is safe to do so. The SA police recommend asking to see identification but there’s also a number you can call.
“Ask to see some identification or ring 131 444 to verify their identity,” the media release said.
“Don’t provide personal details, including financial details, to anyone without first verifying their identity.”
If you have been the victim of a scam, head over to Scamwatch for advice and resources.