Police have issued a warning to Victoria’s Mandarin-speaking community about a fake doctor scam responsible for stealing tens of thousands of dollars from some victims.
Scammers are using artificial intelligence to clone the voicers of doctors, general practitioners and surgeons.
Detectives said the fraudsters were using the victims name to appear credible before instructing them to buy gift cards and provide the code via text message.
Ten reports of the scam were received last month, including from one victim who lost $50,000 to the scam after buying gift cards across a three-day period before they became suspicious.
The victim then called their health provider who told them they had not contacted them.
Police say they are taking the scam “extremely seriously” and urged the community to come forward if targeted. (ABC News: Danielle Bonica)
Police say another victim lost $40,000 after a scammer pretended to be a medical professional who exploited their urgent health conditions.
They say the victim was repeatedly pressured into buying more gift cards until they had lost almost all their cash.
“If you are contacted by anyone claiming to be a doctor, general practitioner or surgeon that instructs you to purchase gift cards, do not comply with their demands,” the Cybercrime Squad’s Detective Acting Inspector Eleanor Vallas said.
The fake police scam stealing millions from Chinese community
She urged the Mandarin-speaking community to remain vigilant and to call police if they fallen victim to the scam.
“We take this scam extremely seriously and want victims to know that there are no barriers in reporting these matters,” she said.
“We can and will help you.”
Acting Inspector Vallas has urged the community to keep records of any phone calls they have about their health, including screen shots of any messages.
“By reporting these crimes to police, you are also helping us form intelligence to investigate, catch those responsible and prevent this from happening to others in future,” she said.
“Never also transfer money or provide personal details to anyone who requests it over the phone unless you made the call yourself.
“If you are unsure, then talk it over with someone you trust, or the police, before taking any action.”
Here’s what police say to do if you receive a scam call:
Do not continue any conversations that you suspect are scamsNever provide gift card codes or financial information over the phoneBe cautious of unexpected calls claiming to be from trusted professionalsHang up and independently contact the clinic or organisation using a verified phone numberDo not reveal any personal information such as your address, bank accounts or other contact detailsReport any suspicious scam or behaviour to Victoria Police, Crime Stoppers or ReportCyberSpeak with friends and family, especially older relatives, about the scam for support and guidance
Police said more information about scams was available on the Scamwatch website and said victims could also report what had happened to them, including anonymously, to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.