Contact Consumer Protection
Tel: 1300 30 40 54
consumer@demirs.wa.gov.au
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25 May 2017
A Perth real estate agency’s computer system has been accessed by scammers, resulting in bogus advertisements being posted on numerous rental accommodation websites.
Actions are being taken to have the fake ads removed and block / close an email address being used by the scammers (see the image for the relevant email address beginning "rentscall@").
Sample of a bogus advertisement being posted on numerous rental accommodation websites.
The Department of Commerce has issued an urgent warning to prospective tenants who applied for the bogus properties, as by providing their personal and financial details they could become the victim of identity theft or find their bank accounts compromised.
Any rental applicants who may have been exposed to the scammers should be directed to the Department's media release.
While this scam appears to be aimed at tenants, it is a timely reminder to real estate businesses that scammers are constantly developing new methods to target individuals and businesses.
Every business should have procedures and protocols which will prevent unauthorised access to their computer system and to detect malware. Having up-to-date anti-virus and anti-malware software is essential.
Organisations targeted by cyber-attacks and scams can report the details to WA ScamNet at Consumer Protection by calling 1300 304 054 or by email.
To help prevent fraudulent activity or loss:
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