Fraudsters target Christmas shoppers

Shoppers are being advised to be careful when disclosing their credit card details as fraudsters aim to take advantage of the Christmas season, the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) has warned.

The ACC has advised shoppers to be wary of emails or phone calls requesting personal or financial information and have issued a series of guidelines for safe shopping.

“These criminals have no conscience," said minister for justice and customs, Senator Chris Ellison. "They’re out there right now trying to get credit card details to rip off Christmas shoppers.”

Shoppers should never write down their credit card details, deal only with trusted internet retailers and never provide credit card details to an email request, according to a statement.

“While Australians are doing their last minute shopping, they should be very wary before handing over their card details, especially when buying gifts over the internet,” said Ellison.

Credit card fraud costs Australia $200 million each year with new laws carrying penalties of up to five years for criminals found guilty, according to the statement.