AUSTRALIANS are being warned to be aware of scammers who are using the coronavirus pandemic to target the vulnerable.
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In the midst of all the anxiety and unease due to COVID-19, scammers are targeting vulnerable Australians for financial gain.
Similar scenarios played out earlier in the year, when scammers targeted Australians through fake fundraisers during the unprecedented bushfires earlier this year.
The scams circulating at the moment are designed by scammers purporting to be legitimate health or government bodies.
The scammers are texting Australians with incorrect health updates or by inserting fake links into texts or emails promising further information about the virus.
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A spokesperson for Consumer Affairs Victoria said it was "appalling that anyone would use coronavirus as an opportunity to exploit others".
"These scams are designed to steal money and personal information, so it is important to check that you are dealing with reputable sources and be vigilant when using your phone or computer," the spokesperson said.
Ballarat superintendent Jenny Wilson told The Courier that in times of great change or chaos, criminals often take advantage of the situation for financial gain.
She urged people to remain vigilant and said that if a situation feels wrong in any way - whether online, on the phone or with a person at the door - to report the incident to police.
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Like all community members, older Australians - who have been urged to isolate at home - are using technology more frequently to stay in contact with friends and family.
While all Australians are vulnerable to scams, which can occur by text, email or phone, older residents are especially so as they may be more unfamiliar with technology.
Research conducted by the eSafety Commission reveals that 57 per cent of Australians aged over 70 have no digital literacy.
According to the Council on the Ageing Victoria (COTA), older people can be exposed to scams year-round, such as false claims made by the Tax Department or other government authorities, which prompt users to provide credit card details or other personal information.
During these challenging times, COTA advises any older Australian using a computer, mobile phone or tablet to always keep the password to a device private and stored in a safe place separate from the device and not to provide credit card details or other personal information to strangers by email or text.
COTA offers free advice to Victorian seniors on its confidential helpline on 1300 368 821.
Official sources of public information relating to coronavirus are the Department of Health and Human Services website, the Better Health website and the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080.
Anyone who wishes to report a potential scam can do so by contacting Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Further information about COVID-19 scams can be found on the ACCC's Scamwatch website.
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