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Advertising Scams

Criminals can use false ads to trick you into transferring money, giving them your card details or other financial information. These ads can pop up while you’re browsing online, show up in a social network feed, be sent to you by email or post and appear in a newspaper or in a public place.

Key Advice

  1. Stay away from ads that offer “easy money” or “get rich quick” ideas. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
  2. Always read the terms and conditions before you sign up for anything.
  3. Understand your obligations where a “free trial” is offered. Be particularly cautious if you are being asked for your card details when signing up for a free trial.
  4. Ensure you buy goods and services from reputable retailers or sellers. Before making a payment or giving payment details ask yourself – How do I know that this person/company is genuine?