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MH17 scams

mh17MH17 scams

The idea of using the MH17 tragedy to make money or scam people is so low that most of us would not even consider the possibility; however scams sadly go hand in hand with any big news event or disaster.

Although no reports were made to WA ScamNet, the media and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission reported that fake Facebook profiles had been set up in the names of Australians who lost their lives when the Malaysian Airlines flight came down in Ukraine.

It is understood that the profiles directed you to a blog, supposedly containing information about MH17. When you clicked through there were a series of pop-up advertisements – the scammers make money from clicks on the pop-up advertisements because the adverts take you through to a business website.

The blog or advertisements may also have infected computers with malicious software (malware), compromising online security for the user. The installation of malware can result in email hacking, theft of personal secure information and even money being stolen from online bank accounts.

There have also been reports of bogus MH17 related videos, which if clicked, can download malware or spyware onto a device.

Post the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings there were email scams. At the time we issued a warning

Charity scams are also prevalent when there is a disaster or tragedy.

Scam prevention tips:

  • Only use official, trusted news sources to access information about major or breaking stories

  • Do not click unverified links posted on social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter or online forums   

  • Report fake Facebook accounts

  • Keep your anti-virus and anti-spyware up-to-date and have a good firewall (only use reputable software) 

  • If you think you’ve clicked something you shouldn’t, run a virus check and consider consulting a computer technician

  • If you think your financial details have been compromised call your bank  

  • Be wary of charitable organisations that approach you – never give your financial details or money to someone unless you have carried out some checks and are 100% sure the funds are going to the intended organisation

  • Donate safely to charity by using reputable, well known licensed charities – the WA licensed charities register can be viewed here.