Scammers impersonating Consumer Protection in rental rip-offs

 

  • Rental scam victims receiving fake emails ‘confirming’ bogus bond lodgements
  • New tactic by scammers to prolong the deception for more money
  • Genuine emails about security bonds come from wa.gov.au addresses only

A concerning new wave of rental scams is emerging, with scammers now posing as Consumer Protection to trick prospective tenants into believing their security bond payment is secure so they can continue the deceit and steal more money.

From the Commissioner: Extended Warranties - worth it or worthless?

Scored a bargain on a new TV, washing machine or fridge lately? But with the purchase often comes the question, “would you like to add an extended warranty?”

It might sound like a smart move for extra peace of mind in case something goes wrong. But before you hand over more money, it's worth taking a closer look at what you’re really getting. Because in many cases, the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) may already cover you.

From the Commissioner: Don’t let danger slip into your cart - shop safe during EOFY sales

As the End of Financial Year (EOFY) sales ramp up, retailers are offering big discounts on everything from toys to e-rideables. While it’s a great time to grab a bargain, it’s also when hidden risks can sneak into your shopping cart.

Consumer Protection’s Product Safety team has flagged toys for babies and toddlers, and items containing button or lithium-ion batteries as particularly risky products to buy during the sales, especially from overseas.

Alert to Perth motorists - fill up now to beat the petrol price rise

Motorists in Perth and Mandurah are advised to fill up now if they need to, with petrol prices set to rise tomorrow. After today motorists will likely have to wait a week before petrol prices are again at the bottom of the price cycle.

FuelWatch reports that, from 6am tomorrow (Wednesday 11 June 2025), the average price of Perth’s regular unleaded petrol (ULP) will increase by 33 cents per litre (cpl) to 187.5 cpl with Ampol hiking up to 205.9 cpl; EG Ampol and Reddy Express up to 203.9 cpl; 7-Eleven, BP and Caltex up to 199.9 cpl; Vibe up to 199.7 cpl; and United up to 199.5 cpl.

From the Commissioner - What you need to know about dealing with debt collectors

Facing debt collectors can be overwhelming, especially when you're unsure of your rights or how to respond.

Debt collection is a legitimate and necessary business activity used to recover money that consumers owe and are required to pay. A debt collector could be the original credit or service provider, or a debt collection agency acting on the creditor’s behalf. Sometimes debts are sold, and the debt buyer is the one doing the collecting.