Warning signs to help you identify if you've encountered a scam.
Learn how to spot and avoid scams
Act straight away to limit the damage
News and alerts
This Scams Awareness Week (26 to 30 August) the National Anti-Scam Centre is encouraging Australians to speak up, share their experiences with others and to report scams to Scamwatch.
Consumers and small businesses need to be wary of unsolicited calls, emails or messages requesting they download a software patch or provide remote access to fix or protect their computer from the CrowdStrike/Microsoft outage.
Downloading unsolicited software can give scammers access to your computer, including your bank accounts.
Criminals are calling people and pretending to be from the National Anti-Scam Centre.
They tell you that your phone number is being used in a scam in China and offer to help you ‘clear your record’.
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STOP
Don’t give money or personal details or click on any links if you’re unsure. Say no, hang up, delete.
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CHECK
Scammers pretend to be from organisations you know and trust – like myGov, your bank, the police or government. If you’re not sure, call the official phone number of the organisation to check.
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REPORT
The more we talk, the less power they have. Report scams to us when you see them.
Scamwatch is led by the National Anti-Scam Centre. The National Anti-Scam Centre:
- helps people spot and avoid scams
- makes it easier to report scams
- improves information sharing to disrupt scammers
- works across government and with industry
- supports law enforcement
Find out more about how to stay safe online
The OAIC investigates privacy breaches and handles data breach reports. They provide guidance and advice for consumers and business on how to protect personal information.
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Stay up-to-date with current scams by subscribing to our Scamwatch scam alert newsletter.