Jason Bloxsidge from the NBN came along to tell us how to minimise the risk of being scammed, as the NBN is seeking to promote digital inclusion by letting vulnerable people know what it’s all about. The frequency and magnitude of scamming in Australia is incredible, and the main vehicles are investment scams as well as dating and romance scams. Scammers use big name companies as their cover because the public trusts those companies. Jason covered the most common types of scams, with investment scams topping the list. Men are the predominant victims in this category, as they tend to fall for the “high return, no risk” propaganda! It is easy to post enticements on-line, encouraging one to dabble in crypto-currencies for example. Another frequent scam is when people contact their victim claiming physical abuse, and asking for money. Remote Access (RA) scams occur when individuals give RA to their devices for whatever reason, and the scammers then download all manner of malware including key loggers which can give up one’s passwords. Phishing scams are when an attacker fraudulently tries to elicit sensitive information from the victim, thus building up a picture over time which can then be used to access bank accounts etc. Beware of blue coloured links that you are asked to click on; they often lead to grief by exposing your system’s details. On-line shopping is another favourite vehicle, so check reviews and ask around before you take the plunge. Jason cited the case of a local lady allegedly selling puppies, and she netted $381,000 with not a puppy in sight! Romance scams prey on the vulnerable, especially those who have recently lost their partner. Jason’s Top Tips are: don’t give bank or credit card details over the phone; set up separate bank accounts for different purposes; use pins and long passwords; and watch out what you post on social media! If a scammer calls, hang up and if you have fallen for something, block your bank account and report it to Scamwatch and IDCare – 2 very useful websites.