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A surge in scam reports has highlighted ongoing challenges as Australians continued to lose significant sums to fraudulent schemes.
Despite efforts to combat scams, reports to the national complaints authority reached unprecedented levels in 2023/24.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority disclosed in its latest report that over 10,000 scams were reported last year, marking an alarming 81% surge compared with the previous reporting period. While this escalation is troubling, David Locke, chief ombudsman for the authority, noted a decline was observed in the later quarters.
"This decline in reports is heartening, but it's certainly not time for complacency," Locke emphasized. Initiatives by both the federal government and major banks have been cited as contributing factors to the reduction in scam activities.
However, Locke warns that "there is still a long way to go" in effectively addressing and mitigating scams across the board. The authority encountered over 10,000 scam-related cases, resolving 70% within 60 days, showcasing a need for faster and more efficient processes.
The ongoing fight against scams was coupled with a rise in financial distress cases. Complaints spurred by financial hardship increased by 18%, highlighting struggles with home, personal, and credit card loans. Ineffective communication and subpar handling during hardship assistance processes were frequently cited grievances.
Locke conveyed concerns regarding the financial industry’s response to these challenges, stating, "Over the past two years, consumers have faced a record level of premium growth in both car and home insurance." There remains a noticeable scarcity of adaptive measures concerning suitable resources and supportive product frameworks.
This article draws information from a recent AAP-delivered update, outlining critical elements of the Australian financial landscape over the past year. Navigating the complex web of financial fraud demands concerted efforts-from improving customer service to designing products focused on resolving grievances swiftly.
Published:Thursday, 31st Oct 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
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In a significant development for the motorcycle industry, KTM AG has successfully secured €600 million in funding to meet its debt obligations, marking a pivotal step in the company's ongoing financial restructuring. This funding ensures KTM's ability to continue operations and reinforces its position in the global motorcycle market. - read more
When it comes to purchasing a motorcycle, many riders opt for financing their purchase through a loan. While it allows you to enjoy the thrill of riding without hefty upfront costs, it's important to manage your monthly loan repayments effectively. By saving money on your motorcycle loan repayments, you can free up funds for other important expenses or accelerate the pay-off process. - read more
Whether you're an experienced rider or just starting your journey in the world of motorcycling, understanding the ins and outs of motorcycle financing is crucial. - read more
Are you dreaming of hitting the open road on a brand-new motorcycle, but unsure about the financial leap it requires? Navigating the world of motorcycle loans can initially seem daunting, but understanding how to secure a favourable deal is crucial. - read more
A credit score is a numerical representation of an individual's creditworthiness based on their financial history, payment habits, and level of existing debt. It plays a crucial role in determining loan eligibility and interest rates for various financing options, including motorcycle loans. - read more
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Guarantor: A party who agrees to be responsible for the payment of another party's debts should the original party fail to pay or perform according to a contract.
