Beware: Fake Travel Prize and Entitlement Scams Targeting Aussies

• Scam Prevention
• Travel Scams
• Financial Safety

Protect yourself from losing money to scammers offering fake entitlements, rebates, or travel prizes by recognising these common warning signs.

The Truth Behind Entitlement and Travel Prize Scams

Many Australians fall victim to scams involving fake entitlements, rebates, and travel prizes every year. Scammers convince people that they have won or are owed money, enticing them to pay fees upfront or hand over personal financial information. Unfortunately, these scams always result in victims losing money rather than gaining it.

How These Scams Typically Work

Scammers make unsolicited contact through emails, texts, letters, or phone calls, claiming that you have won a prize or are owed money. Common examples include:

• Fake Entitlements or Rebates: Scammers inform you of refunds, rebates, or government entitlements, asking for administrative fees upfront.
• Travel Prize Scams: Scammers promise free or discounted holidays, asking for payment of taxes or fees, as well as credit card or bank details.
• Inheritance and Compensation Scams: Unsolicited messages claim you are the beneficiary of an inheritance or entitled to compensation, requesting personal and financial details.

Warning Signs of an Entitlement or Prize Scam

• You receive unexpected notifications about winning a prize or entitlement you never applied for.
• The message requests upfront payment, like taxes, fees, or administration costs, before you can access the money or prize.
• Official-looking communications request personal information such as bank or credit card details.
• Messages claiming to be from well-known brands, airlines, or hotels offering prizes or rewards.

Protect Yourself from Becoming a Victim

Follow these practical steps to stay safe:

• Never Pay Upfront Fees: Legitimate competitions or entitlements never require upfront payments.
• Guard Your Personal Details: Never provide your banking, credit card, or identity information to unknown contacts.
• Verify Offers: Independently verify any unexpected offers or prizes directly through official company websites or customer service.
• Check Authenticity: Conduct an online search of the sender’s details or offer to see if others have reported it as a scam.
• Seek Advice: Discuss unexpected financial offers with trusted friends, family, or your financial institution before responding.

What to Do if You've Been Targeted by a Scam

If you suspect you're being scammed:

• Stop communication immediately.
• Contact your bank or financial provider to secure your accounts.
• Report the scam to authorities, such as Scamwatch or your local police.
• Alert others by sharing your experience to prevent further victimisation.

Stay Alert to Stay Safe

Scams promising unexpected money or prizes continue to be widespread. Always be cautious, question unsolicited offers, and remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.