With data breaches in the headlines, it is more important than ever that you remain vigilant and on the lookout for potential scams.
Unfortunately, one of our employees got caught up in an online scam recently, but rather than consider it a negative experience she wants to use it as a tool to help others.
Administration Assistant, Madison Beresford is one of our rising stars. Formerly an employee at Geebung social enterprise, she achieved her goal of moving into open employment two years ago when she joined our Lotteries and IT Teams.
One morning, she was told by her teammates that they received hostile messages the night before, sent from her Instagram account, insisting that they help her reset her password. Luckily, her colleagues knew the messenger couldn’t have been the kind and noble Madison. They told her that her account had probably been hacked. But how?
Madison was a frequent user of Instagram, using the platform to connect with friends and celebrities she adored. She would message her idols and comment on their posts.
Little did she know, these comments were being seen by scammers who use the comment section of celebrity accounts to identify potential targets.
After commenting on one celebrity post in particular, Madison received a private message from someone claiming to be the celebrity’s manager and offered Madison a VIP ticket to meet the celebrity. In exchange, Madison had to disclose personal and financial details. Unfortunately, she handed over this information. The scammer then threatened to sell Madison’s information online unless she sent him an iTunes gift card. It was at that point a link was clicked and her account was hacked.
When my colleagues told me someone was pretending to be me, I was scared for everyone’s safety and my own, and I was devastated that an awful person would stoop so low,
She said she felt silly that she fell for such a trap. But she shouldn’t; this situation could happen to anyone. In fact, one in nine Australians experienced personal fraud in 2020-21 (ABS, 2022).
When asked why she wanted to share her story, Madison said: “I have grown into a more mature person because of this experience. I’m aware now and I want to help others be aware too. I’m super grateful to everyone at work who protected me, who likes me as a friend and wants me to be safe.”
To stay safe online, Madison offered the following tips:
Friend people you actually know and don’t answer messages or click on links sent from strangers. Just block and ignore them. And let someone know who loves and supports you.
If you are ever concerned your identity has been stolen or compromised, contact your bank immediately and call the free, government-funded service IDCARE on 1800 595 160 or go to their website idcare.org.
Having personal information stolen can be upsetting. Support and assistance is available to Endeavour Foundation employees and their families through our Employee Assistance Program provider, Benestar on 1300 360 364.
News
View all
Director Election Expression of Interest
Are you in email overload?
Grant funding brings new life to Alex Hills L&L
BRACE proposed changes
Fire Services – Chubb Fire & Security is our new provider
