WITH many people digging deep to help support bushfire-affected communities, volunteer firefighters and animal rescue charities, authorities have warned scammers are lurking.
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Scammers are using the bushfire crisis as a way to fraudulently seek donations from community members hoping to support those in need, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) warns.
"There are currently a wide range of appeals raising funds for people and animals affected by the bushfires. Unfortunately, some of these are scams," the ACCC warned.
READ ALSO: Tens of millions raised for bushfire aid
As a result the government has set up a dedicated hotline for reporting bushfire-related scams which came into operation on Tuesday.
"Scammers impersonate genuine charities and ask for donations or contact you claiming to collect money after natural disasters or major events," the ACCC said.
"Fake charities try to take advantage of your generosity and compassion for others in need. Scammers will steal your money by posing as a genuine charity.
"Not only do these scams cost you money, they also divert much needed donations away from legitimate charities and causes."
Recently, Chifley Police District officers warned residents that a scammer was operating in the Portland, Wallerawang and Cullen Bullen areas.
Police said that a male had been impersonating a NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) firefighter and could be wearing a uniform.
READ ALSO: Breathing problems rise in bushfire smoke
Officers said there had been reported cases where the male had knocked on residents' doors and said he had been out fighting fires all night and was collecting money.
People can make a report on the Scamwatch website, or find more information about where to get help.
Reports of any bushfire-related scams can be made to the ACCC's dedicated hotline on 1300 795 995.
How to avoid being scammed
- Scammers are pretending to be legitimate well-known charities, creating their own charity names, and impersonating people negatively impacted by the bushfires.
- Scammers are cold-calling, direct messaging and creating fake websites and pages on social media to raise funds.
- Do not donate via fundraising pages on platforms that do not verify the legitimacy of the fundraiser or that do not guarantee your money will be returned if the page is determined to be fraudulent.
- Be careful about crowdfunding requests as these may be fake and also come from scammers. Check the terms and conditions of funding platforms and ensure you are dealing with official organisations. If you are unsure, make your donation to an established charity instead.
- If you are donating to an established charity or not-for-profit organisation, ensure it is registered and that you are on its official website by searching the Australia Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Charity Register.
- If you think you have paid money to a scammer, please contact your bank immediately.
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Nadine Morton
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
