We have been made aware that a member of the public has received WhatsApp messages from an individual falsely claiming to be from Conscious Investment Management (CIM). The messages promoted a “confidential housing support program”, which purported to offer rent exemptions and home ownership opportunities, and asked for personal information to assess their application. The scammer quoted an incorrect AFS Licence number 531480 to appear legitimate. This housing support program was initially advertised on Facebook.
This program does not exist and the messages were not sent or authorised by CIM.
CIM invests in social and affordable housing in partnership with Community Housing Providers, who manage the properties and work directly with residents. CIM does not offer housing directly to individuals and CIM will never contact members of the public to discuss any housing rental or ownership opportunities. In particular, CIM will never initiate contact with current or prospective residents through WhatsApp, email, text message or any other messaging applications or platforms to offer housing, request fees or any other payments, or seek personal information.
While we reiterate that we will never contact members of the public directly in respect of any housing opportunities, any legitimate correspondence from CIM will be sent from an @consciousinvest.com.au email address.
The number used in this instance was +61 468 260 302. Scammers frequently change numbers, so any similar approach should be treated with caution.
If you have received a suspicious message or wish to confirm whether a communication is genuinely from CIM, please contact us at info@consciousinvest.com.au. If you have sent money or shared personal information, please contact your bank immediately and report the matter at https://www.scamwatch.gov.au. IDCARE offers free identity support on 1800 595 160.