Travel scratchies scams
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There has been an escalation in reports to WA ScamNet of a scratchie card scam.
The scam is sent through the mail and as you can see by the look of scratchy card and brochure it is quite convincing.
Consumers are receiving two scratch cards and a brochure. One scratch card is winner of the $160000 2nd prize and the other is just a thank you. On trying to claim the prize consumers are asked to pay approximately $5000 to join the club because the prize is only for club members. The scammers are asking for the money to be sent via wire transfer. The scammers are also asking for personal information and identification documents.
WA ScamNet is advising consumers to continue to be on the look out for scam scratchie cards in their letterbox.
We advise not responding to these letters as any money sent via wire transfer will be lost and you will not receive any prize money. Do not send any personal information as it could be used in identity theft scams.
You may think you’re a big winner but scammers will ask you for thousands to claim a prize that never arrives.
Scratchies consumers should avoid:
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Tunes Travelling
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Asia Go Travelling
How the scam works
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You receive a package in the mail which will commonly contain colourful travel brochures and a number of scratchie cards. One card will always be a winner. The most common ‘prize’ being a second prize of $160,000.
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If you call the number provided in the package, the scammer will ask for fees or taxes to be paid using a wire transfer service.
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Fees for claiming the ‘prize’ are often in the thousands and if you pay, you will never receive your promised winnings or see your money again.
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In some rare cases you may be asked to travel overseas to collect your winnings.
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The scammer may also request bank details and copies or original photo identification.
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The scam package may contain contact details for an overseas company and will also provide a web address for a fraudulent but professional-looking travel website.
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The packages may fraudulently mention legitimate travel and holiday providers.
Protect yourself
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Be suspicious of any unsolicited letters, emails or telephone calls offering an unexpected prize or cash win.
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Ask yourself why you have to pay upfront money for a prize when the sum could be deducted from your winnings.
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NEVER send money or give personal details to people who contact you out of the blue, and who you don’t know and trust.
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Always get independent advice if you are unsure whether an offer or request is genuine.
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Search the company’s name on the internet as many scams can be identified this way.