Recently, it's been reported by Scamwatch that scammers are advertising ‘free’ classes and creating fake social media groups on various platforms and search engines such as Facebook and Google for a range of activities including Tai Chi, dancing, walking, or hiking.
Once you join the online group, you will receive a call or message from the group administrator. You’ll be advised to download an app from a website to view and register for the free classes. The website may have a button or link to click to ‘Download’ the app from an app store but once you click, it will immediately begin downloading the malware directly to your device. This malware can access and steal your money.
Who’s at risk
- Web and social media users
- People interested in free or new activities
Warning signs to look out for
- Offers for free classes, activities, and events that require you to click on links, download attachments or install software.
- Calls or messages from "group administrators".
- Class locations and times not freely available.
- being asked to download an app from a third-party website.
Need help?
If you believe someone has gained access to your bank account and/or personal information, even if the scam appears unrelated to your finances, you should contact your bank immediately. A timely response can be critical.
- If you have concerns about your account contact us immediately.
- You can report cybercrime directly to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) or National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC) – Scamwatch.
- Find out how scams work, how to protect yourself, what to do if you’ve been scammed or report a scam to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) via Scamwatch.
- Change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication to protect your accounts.
As always, we remain committed to your security and privacy online. To understand how we help to keep you safe, please refer to our Security page. For more information on common scams and how to protect yourself, please visit the News section of our website.
