Scams are everywhere, targeting people from all walks of life, and in 2023 Australians reported a $2.74 billion loss to scams. This represents a significant loss for people and businesses across the country.

As we know, scams take many forms and are becoming increasingly complex and hard to spot. Whether it’s fake emails, unexpected phone calls or online schemes, scammers are always finding new ways to gain your trust to steal your money or personal information. Remember – anyone can be the victim of a scam and we all have a role to play to effectively fight scams. That’s why the National Anti-Scam Centre has launched an important awareness campaign: Stop. Check. Protect.

These 3 small steps, anyone can take, will help minimise the risk and can help make Australia a harder target for scammers. 

STOP.

Don’t give money or your information to anyone if unsure. Scammers will pretend to be from organisations you know and trust. This can include businesses, the police, your bank or government agencies. They will offer to help you or ask you to verify your identity with them.

CHECK.

Ask yourself if the message or call is fake. Never click a link in a message. Only contact businesses or government using contact information that you find yourself from their official website or app. If you’re not sure, say ‘no’, hang up or delete.

PROTECT.

Act quickly if something feels wrong. Contact your bank if you notice unusual activity or if a scammer gets your money or information. Seek help and report the scam to ScamWatch. When you report scams, you help stop the scam and warn others. You can also report a scam anonymously or on behalf of your client and according to ScamWatch, 93% of people who report a scam don’t suffer a financial loss at all. 

Test your knowledge

How well do you know scams? Put your scam sense to the test with ScamWatch’s online quiz. Give the 8 questions a go and find out how you can better protect yourself against scams. 

You can also learn how to spot and avoid scams by downloading ScamWatch’s Little Book of Scams. Why not share it with your clients to help them stay aware.

Getting help

• Learn more about scams and how ScamWatch can help.
• If have unwittingly shared sensitive information, divulged yours or your client’s TFN, phone the Australian Taxation Office on 1800 467 033.  
• Getting scammed can be very confronting. If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety, emotional concerns or distress about scams, contact Lifeline or Beyond Blue.