Don't get scammed by email spam
Every year billions of unwanted spam messages flood the internet causing significant inconvenience to individuals and businesses. It disrupts email delivery, clogs up computer systems, reduces productivity, and is the subject of thousands of complaints received by Consumer Protection every month. Spamming is a federal offence. If you are the target of spam messages contact the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
Spam email is the common term use for electronic 'junk mail' - unwanted messages sent to your email account or mobile phone. Spam varies: some simply promote a product or service or invite a visit to a website where you can make purchases, while others attempt to trick you into giving your bank account or credit details. Common examples of spam messages include:
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Banking/phishing emails;
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Offers of stock market options;
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Credit and mortgage arrangements;
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Computer goods including software and hardware;
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Promotions of pharmaceutical and health related products;
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Promoting sales at markets, shops and warehouses;
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Promoting sales of franchises or business ventures;
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Advertisements for restaurants, exhibitions, or trade services;
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Promotions of pornographic websites or services, as well as;
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Gambling services.
When you receive a spam email you have several options:
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Don't respond to it if it seems suspicious;
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If it is a legitimate Australian business, contact them direct and make a complaint;
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If in doubt, make a spam complaint or report to ACMA.