Taskforce warns of advance fee fraud scams

The Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce is warning consumers about advance fee fraud scams that could arrive via email or post.

Louise Sylvan, deputy chair at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and chair of the Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce, said advance fee frauds come in all shapes and sizes.

"Examples are pyramid schemes, the infamous Nigerian scam, and the more recent Princess Diana scam," Sylvan said.

"Millions of dollars are lost worldwide to this long enduring scam and Australian consumers are no exception," she said.

Sylvan said the scams were sophisticated and highly organised. "The scammers continuously re-invent the letters and clever use of technology makes them hard to trace. It is unlikely that a victim will ever see their money again."

More information about various scams, and reporting scams can be found on the Scamwatch website at http://www.scamwatch.gov.au.

"To avoid real-life tragic tales, the Taskforce is sending out a strong message to all consumers. Don't help the scammers to scam you. When a scam comes a-knocking hit the delete key or make straight for the recycling bin."

The Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce was set up in 2005, with 18 government regulatory agencies and departments in Australia and New Zealand involved, as part of a government bid to combat fraud and scams targeted at consumers.

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