In today's digital world, where online interactions are common for everything, fake lending websites and social media profiles can appear overnight, designed to trick people into handing over their hard-earned money or sensitive personal details. These scams are becoming more sophisticated, making it crucial to know how to protect yourself. As a trusted local mortgage broker, Just Right Lending is here to help you navigate these risks — and show you what makes us a safe choice.
1. Watch for Unexpected Loan Offers
Scammers frequently reach out "out of the blue" with unsolicited calls, texts, or emails claiming you're "pre-approved" for a loan you never applied for. They create a sense of urgency, often asking for personal information or even money upfront.
2. Beware of Upfront Payment Demands - This is a Major Red Flag!
This is one of the clearest signs of a scam. ASIC (Australian Securities & Investments Commission) explicitly warns that legitimate mortgage brokers and lenders never ask you to pay "insurance," "tax," "guarantee," or "release" fees upfront before they release any loan funds. Scammers invent these fees, claiming they're necessary to "unlock" or "process" your loan, but it's purely a tactic to steal your money.
Why it's a scam: A real lender or broker earns their fee from the successful settlement of your loan. There are no secret pre-payment requirements.
At Just Right Lending, you will never be asked to pay us directly for loan approvals or any upfront fees to "release" funds. We are paid by the lender once your loan genuinely settles.
3. Check the Email Address & Website Carefully
Scammers often use generic, free email accounts (like Gmail or Outlook) or slightly misspelled versions of legitimate company names.
A real, professional business will use an email address tied to their official website domain (e.g., info@yourcompany.com.au).
Our only email is @justrightlending.com.au — never trust anyone using a lookalike address.
For websites, always look for:
- A professional, well-maintained site: Does it look legitimate, or does it have typos, strange formatting, or low-resolution images?
- A clear, legitimate domain name: Always double-check the website address in your browser. Scammers often use subtle misspellings or add extra words.
- A secure connection: Look for a padlock icon (🔒) in the address bar or ensure there is NO "Not Secure" warning.
- Always type the real business name directly into the browser if you are unsure.
4. Check for a Real Credit Licence
Every Mortgage Broker in Australia must hold a Credit Licence or be an Authorised Credit Representative.
You can check any broker’s credentials yourself on the official ASIC Professional Registers.
👉 Search ASIC here — by business name or broker’s name.
At Just Right Lending, we’re fully licensed and accredited. If you’d like, we’re happy to show you our credentials anytime.
5. How to Protect Yourself
- Never send money upfront for “insurance”, “taxes”, or “fast approval”.
- Don’t share copies of your ID unless you know exactly who’s asking, and why.
- Be wary of unexpected messages (emails or texts) with links.
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages.
- Instead, if you think the message might be legitimate (e.g., from your bank), go directly to their official website by typing their known address into your browser, or call them using a phone number you know to be correct (not one provided in the suspicious message).
If in doubt, call us! We’ll help you confirm what’s real.
What To Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
- Report it to ASIC's via their Scamwatch page
- If you’ve sent money, contact your bank immediately and file a police report.
Why You’re Always Safe with Just Right Lending
✅ We are a fully licensed & regulated mortgage broker, always operating under strict Australian financial laws.
✅ No upfront fees — ever. We are paid by the lender upon your loan's successful settlement.
✅ We use secure online portals and processes to keep your personal details and ID safe.
✅ As a trusted local service in Donvale, Victoria, we pride ourselves on real 5-star reviews and personalised support.
Not Us: Just Right Lending vs. ‘Just Right Finance’
Unfortunately, scammers sometimes use similar names to confuse people.
Just Right Lending is an independent Mortgage Broker based in Donvale, Victoria.Our registered entity is Just Right Finance Pty Ltd, ABN 55 621 750 721 — but we only trade as Just Right Lending.
We’re not affiliated with any company pretending to offer personal loans with upfront fees.
Got Questions? Call Jane Directly
If you’re ever unsure about an offer that looks like it’s from us, please check first.
📞 Jane Betschel, Just Right Lending
☎️ 0417 320 233
✅ Your safety is our priority — and we’re always here to help you borrow smart and stress-free.
