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Fake text scam warning for motor vehicle dealers

SMS-ScamConsumer Protection is warning licensed motor vehicle dealers, yard managers and salespeople to be aware of a phone text scam which has been received by a number of staff working in the industry.

The text from “Malfour G” purports to be from the “Department of Fair Trading” and is addressed to the recipient by name and also mentions the car yard where they are currently employed.

It’s believed these details were obtained from the publicly available licence search facility on the Department of Commerce website. The text accuses the recipient of trading illegally and informs them that a court summons is being sent to their address. It also threatens to inform their employer.

This is an attempt by criminals to provoke a response which will result in them receiving either personal details or some financial gain by fraud and deception. Consumer Protection urges recipients of this text message to delete it immediately and not to respond in any way.

Consumer Protection does not contact motor vehicle dealers, yard managers or salespeople regarding breaches of consumer law via text message. If you have responded to this text please contact WAScamNet  by email  or phone the Consumer Protection Advice Line: 1300 30 40 54.