If you receive a FB message that appears to be from a friend or relative telling you how they've just received a government grant or won money and giving you information on how you too can be so lucky – delete immediately.
The message is really from a scammer who has either hacked your friend's account or created a "copy" profile by stealing their images and information.
Because the message is from someone you "know" the scammers hope you'll trust what they're telling you.
This is just the latest version of the "Advanced Fee Fraud" because you will be required to pay an upfront fee for tax or processing to obtain this so called "free" money.
Other versions of this scam are designed to trick you into giving over personal information by clicking on a link and asking for bank details, dates of birth, your address etc.
Never click on a link sent to you in this way, you could be infecting your computer with malware.
If you are ever in doubt of messages sent to you by a Facebook friend – pick up the phone and give them a call, it could save you a lot of time and money.
R U in Control of your social media?
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
