Warning of coronavirus scams targeting online shopping as student victim fleeced for thousands

Western Australia's consumer watchdog is warning of a rise in coronavirus-related scams as more retailers move their businesses online in the wake of retail trading restrictions. Key points: Dozens in WA have lost about $70,000 to online coronavirus scammers One student lost $13,700 after scammers called with fake test results Authorities are warning people to verify websites before sending money Victims of online COVID-19-related scams have lost close to $70,000 in WA, mainly through fake websites and social media pages. There have been several reported incidents, including one targeting a Perth-based Chinese student who lost $13,800 after scammers called her on the pretext of reporting her COVID-19 results from the Shanghai Medical Centre. Consumer Protection WA said when the student told the caller she wasn't in Shanghai and never undertook a test, she was transferred to someone claiming to be from Shanghai Police. Stay up-to-date on the coronavirus outbreak Download the ABC News app and subscribe to our range of news alerts for the latest on how the pandemic is impacting the world Mr Cvejic said people could distinguish a fake website from a real one by looking for information.