WA ScamNet has reported an increase in reports of scams affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Western Australia.
The ScamNet said that in the past 12 months 50 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have reported losses of $161,772 to scams.
In a statement, Consumer Protection which operates WA ScamNet, said online shopping scams were the highest reported category with one man from Collie losing $3,285 to a shipping container scam.
“Hacking and investment scams were the highest losses reported, with one woman from Leederville losing more than $63,000 to a multi-layered bitcoin investment scam,” Consumer Protection said.
It said many more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were expected to have fallen victim to scams, as only about 13 per cent of scam losses are reported to regulators.
“To help combat scams and understand issues faced by Aboriginal consumers buying goods and services such as a motor vehicle, or with renting, Consumer Protection has launched the Aboriginal Consumers Count Survey (ACCS) which invites Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 16 and over to share their experiences,” Consumer Protection said.
“The survey will help Consumer Protection identify unlawful conduct by traders, help develop education and awareness campaigns to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to know their consumer rights, what to do when things go wrong, and how to protect themselves from scams,” it said.
To take the survey on the Consumer Protection website access this PS News link.
Participants who complete the survey will go into a draw to win one of nine $200 cost of living gift cards.
The survey closes on 30 June.
