Queensland police have charged two Latvian nationals accused of scamming $250,000 from Australians through fake shopping websites.
A 27-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman allegedly used fake trader websites to obtain money from more than 200 people national wide.
A police investigation began when an increase of fake trading websites was discovered through the Australian Cyber Online Reporting Network (ACORN).
Customers believed they were buying outdoor furniture, barbeques, marine motors and fitness equipment.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Police alleged people purchasing items from the fake websites were asked to provide credit card details and they were also offered a further discount if payment was made via direct bank-to-bank transfers.
After making payment, victims were allegedly emailed ‘invoices’ concerning their purchases and advised of a delivery date.
However, no items were delivered and customers attempting to re-contact the websites were left at a dead end as the contact numbers had been disconnected or their emails were not replied to.
So far, 45 Queenslanders have been affected spending an estimated $60,000, according to police.
Fraud and Cyber Crime Detective Superintendent Peter Brewer has praised the work of detectives and the community.
“This arrest was the result of information provided to us by members of the public through the ACORN reporting system and we continue to encourage anyone who is effected by Cyber Crime offences to report the information on the ACORN system.”
The pair have been charged with multiple counts of fraud and money laundering and will face Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
Police have shut down the website.
