GEORGE NEWS - Over the past couple of months George Herald has been inundated with complaints from people who fell victim to some sort of scam.
The nature of the scams vary from alleged housing scams, property sales and buying and selling of farm implements, to making a quick buck on certain stock trading platforms.
Yes, it can be said that people are desperate and desperate times call for desperate measures, but it's up to each and every one to read the fine print and be vigilant when selling or buying something from someone you don't know.
Do your homework and make sure the person you are dealing with is accredited - don't simply take their word for it. The days of trusting someone blindly are long gone, unfortunately.
Tips to avoid getting scammed
- Do not buy or rent from someone you don't know or have not done a background check on.
- Do not invest in a product or service that seems too good to be true.
- Keep confidential information private.
- Do not pay for something you don't have.
- Be vigilant and naturally sceptical.
- Educate those around you who are vulnerable to scams, such as the elderly.
- Do not click on suspicious links or attachments e-mailed to you.
- Only donate to charities you know and trust.
- Report any unexplained transactions to your bank.
- Report any fraudulent activity at your nearest police station.
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