Police are warning people about unknown contacts who get in touch about money. Photo: Michelle Kroll (file photo only).
Murrumbidgee police have warned people about the risks of online fraud after an intended victim nearly lost $20,000 from their bank account.
Inspector Glenn Smith said the incident occurred on Wednesday, 28 January.
The victim was contacted by an unknown user on the messaging platform WhatsApp.
The targeted person was asked to provide their bank details so they could receive cryptocurrency to which they were entitled. The targeted victim then provided the unknown user with their bank account details and a copy of their driver’s licence.
A few days later, the intended victim was contacted by their bank and informed that an unknown person was attempting to make a $20,000 transaction through their account. The intended victim informed the bank that they did not authorise this transaction and no money was withdrawn from their account.
“If you are contacted by someone asking for your bank account details and a copy of your licence for the promise of money or crypto, then it’s most likely a scam,” Inspector Smith said.
Crimes Stoppers allows members of the public to anonymously report information about fraud or other crime by calling 1800 333 000 or messaging online.
NSW Police advises you to follow these steps if you’re a victim of fraud:
- Alert your financial institution and close any unauthorised accounts.
- Contact people you know and let them know about the fraud.
- Change your online passwords and close any fraudulent or breached online accounts.
- Report the theft of identity credentials to issuing organisations such as Service NSW and Services Australia.
