It is easy to dismiss those caught in computer and phone scams as gullible, but scammers are using increasingly sophisticated methods.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) warns some are creating elaborate websites and phone personas to appear like a genuine government authority.

So called “reclaim” scams, where fraudsters say they represent a government department which owes you money, have so far this year milked a reported $300,000 from unwary Australians.

If it did not work, they would not do it.

Tax time is a popular season for such scams.

Typically, the fraudsters convinced their victims to transfer an “administration fee” before their “reclaimed” money would be sent.

Malua Bay’s Fran Trounson is to be commended for putting her name and face to the latest twist on this scam.

She wasn’t caught, but freely admits it was a close thing and believes others will be.

The ACCC says scammers use headlines to their advantage.

To appear legitimate, they may claim your “case” is connected to a topical issue or government program.

Recent publicity of a class action where a bank was ordered to refund excess card charges may well have inspired the scam that nearly netted Mrs Trounson.

Consumers vaguely aware of a genuine case, but hazy on the details, may be susceptible to a call saying they have been overcharged. 

The carbon tax was a popular one in recent years, and will no doubt again do the scam rounds, now that it has been abolished.

It does not take much creativity to write that script.

If a “government” official telephones you offering a carbon tax refund, enjoy the moment and treat it as so much hot air.

- KERRIE O’CONNOR