It's time for another lesson in preventing your hard-earned money going to scammers.

Picture this - you are the victim of a break and enter or a stealing or you may have lost your wallet.

Whatever has happened the fact is that your credit cards are gone.

At some point you receive a phone call from someone identifying themselves as a bank employee.

At this time, you may be advised that your wallet/card has been located and handed in to the bank.

You are then told that your card can be cancelled immediately if you can provide your identity by providing the person on the line your PIN number for the card.

DO NOT GIVE ANYONE YOUR PERSONAL BANKING DETAILS (PIN) OVER THE PHONE.

If you do give out your PIN number in this situation you will more than likely have all the money in your account attached to the card taken and you will never see it again.

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Remember, this is a scam that is being used now.

We can say to ourselves, "It won't happen to me because I am too smart for the scammers".

That may be so, but what about your elderly parents or other members of your family who are vulnerable.

Sit down and have the conversation with them. Make them aware of what could happen.

Banks do not ask for PIN numbers over the phone. ever!

Remember you can Dob in a Druggie any time you like by contacting Nowra Police or ringing Crime Stoppers. Do not drink and drive. As always, in case of an emergency call 000. In non-emergencies call the Policelink on 131 444 or your local police station. To provide anonymous information call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000. For domestic and family violence information, visit www.police.nsw.gov.au. For Shoalhaven Domestic Violence officers call 4421 9666 or 4421 9665 or email shoaldvlo@police.nsw.gov.au.

Don't forget, cops are tops.

Read more: Crime/Court