It's Christmas time and scammers are out to try and take advantage of you when you least expect it. The latest scam tries to hide behind the Christmas mail rush by posing as postal services. People have already complained of receiving emails from what appear to be from a legitimate parcel delivery service such as Australia Post or FedEx.

The scammers say they weren't able to deliver a parcel at your home as you were out, and information on how to retrieve the parcel is attached to the email.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission warns not to open the attachment as it is what's called Ransomware, a type of malware that restricts access to the computer system it infects. You then get a demand to pay a ransom to have the restriction removed. The ACCC warns that even if you do pay there is no guarantee your computer will be unlocked.

Another variation to the scam is they say they will redeliver the "missed" parcel if you pay a fee. This can be anything from $10 to $30 to be paid by credit card. It's the last you'll see of the money and there's a danger they'll get into your credit card and personal finances.

The ACCC says delivery firms such as Australia Post should not be asking for money to complete their delivery. They have a contractual requirement to deliver a parcel paid for by the sender. If you get an email like this, best delete it quickly. Don't open the attachment.

Many people are lonely over Christmas and scammers are experts at playing on people's vulnerabilities. Dating and romance scams increased 13 per cent in 2013 - a total 2,770 reports to the ACCC. Twenty-five million dollars was reported to have been ripped off by scammers from people seeking love and friendship via the Internet. More than 400 people lost more than $10,000. And those are the people not too embarrassed to report their mistake to the ACCC.

Some hot tips to avoid scammers' traps:

Back off as soon as they ask for money. It'll be a plea for a sick relative, they're stranded, need to pay for a ticket or pay their way out of a tough spot.

Don't go alone to meet them. It can be dangerous. If you must go, meet in public.

  • Don't hand over financial or personal identification details.
  • They've used saucy photos to blackmail people.
  • Check their identity. They often use fake pictures.
  • If you fear your finances are at risk, contact your bank immediately.
  • If ripped off seek legal advice. There could be legal avenues to pursue.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.