Hundreds of Australians have been contacted by crooks falsely posing as federal agents, according to the AFP alert on Wednesday.

Scammers often work by telling victims that they have identified suspicious activity related to their bank accounts and then request personal information, including a health insurance number, address, and bank details.

They target people via email and social media with fake arrest warrants, then call their victims and demand payments – ordering them to deposit money into a designated bank account or buy vouchers in line, AFP said.

A fake arrest warrant provided by AFP showed how easily someone could be duped because it had the correct letterhead and compelling legal jargon.

He claimed that the interviewee faces charges carrying a fine of $ 300,0825.35 and 20 years in prison, which would be imposed on him if he did not respond with adequate details.

An elderly woman was unfortunately manipulated by such a scheme and sent more than $ 16,000 to a fraudulent account, according to AFP.

Detective Superintendent Jayne Crossling said it is very common for crooks to steal from vulnerable Australians.

“Scammers take advantage of people’s trust in authorities and the fear of doing the wrong thing,” Detective Superintendent Crossling said.

“Victims can feel a whole range of emotions – from helplessness and humiliation to anger and guilt – but it’s important to know that you are not to blame and that help is available. available. “

“The sooner people report fraud when the victim has suffered a financial loss, the better the chances that the banks or the authorities can help recover the funds. “

Anyone who is concerned that they have been contacted by a scammer can report it through the ScamWatch website.