Scams work because they look like the real thing and scammers contact you when you’re not expecting it, or busy trying to do many things at once.

Criminals take advantage of new technology, new products or services and major events. They use them to create believable stories that convince you to give them your money, financial or personal details. 

Always stop and check before you act. Scammers rely on you not spotting these warning signs because you're in a hurry, you don't want to miss something that looks like a great deal, or because it seems like it's from someone you trust.

Here are some common signs that something is a scam and how to stay protected.

How to spot a scam

Scams are economic crimes run by criminals who are often very organised and sophisticated.

A scam is:

  • when someone deceives you into providing personal or financial information so they can steal from you

A scam is NOT:

  • someone hacking your computer, device or account to steal from you
  • buying something that turns out to be poor quality
  • paying more than something is worth

Not all negative experiences are scams. While it's disappointing if you buy something that's not as described, it doesn't make it a scam. You have rights under the Australian Consumer Law for these sorts of issues.

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Watch out for follow-up scams

If scammers have been successful, they will try to get more money. Unfortunately, 1 in 3 victims of a scam have been scammed more than once. If scammers have stolen your money, financial or personal information, watch out for new scams -  especially if someone contacts you to 'help you get your money back'.