Queensland authorities have issued an urgent statewide alert about a network of travelling scammers targeting elderly and vulnerable residents with fraudulent roof maintenance offers.
How the Scam Operation Works
The warning comes after police were first alerted to the scheme on November 19 in Manly West, Brisbane, where a man claiming to represent a roofing company approached a resident offering roof upgrades. The homeowner wisely declined the unsolicited offer, and the suspect left as a passenger in a white Nissan Navara that has since been connected to multiple similar incidents across Queensland.
Police have confirmed the vehicle and its associated individuals have been involved in fraudulent activities across several suburbs, including Svensson Heights in Bundaberg, as well as Caboolture, Strathpine, Capalaba, and Woolloongabba in Brisbane.
Vulnerable Residents at Risk
Investigators believe the scammers are specifically targeting elderly and vulnerable community members, offering what appears to be low-cost roof maintenance, tile replacement, or cleaning services. These offers ultimately result in significant financial losses for victims who accept the fraudulent services.
Queensland Police have emphasised that residents should be particularly cautious of door-to-door promotions advertising unusually cheap work, as well as flyers and signage that might indicate scammers are operating in their area.
Protecting Yourself from Scammers
Authorities have provided clear guidelines to help residents avoid falling victim to these travelling scammers:
- Always verify business credentials before engaging any tradesperson
- Be extremely cautious of unsolicited offers for home maintenance
- Consider not opening your door to unknown visitors
- Look out for warning signs like unusually cheap pricing
- Report any suspicious activity immediately
Police are urging anyone who notices suspicious activity or has information about these scams to contact Policelink or Crimestoppers immediately. The public's vigilance is considered crucial in preventing further victims and potentially stopping these travelling scammers from continuing their fraudulent operations across Queensland communities.
