Beware SMS ‘scam message service’

POLICE have issued a warning about a mobile phone message scam demanding money be sent to an overseas bank account.
They have been alerted to several reports of people receiving disturbing messages demanding several thousand dollars be paid into an overseas account.
The messages are quite lengthy and are usually long enough to continue over the course of three or four short messages.
The key phrase to look out for is a demand to send money to a ‘Western Union Account’ in Asia.
The messages can be threatening, stating that if money is not paid the person receiving the message will be harmed.
Investigators understand these messages have been widely received in Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria.
The origin of the message is being investigated. Police urge any person receiving a message of this type, to ensure they do not send money to the nominated account.
If recipients of the message feel threatened, they should contact their local police, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppers.com.au