Ways scammers reach you
Scam messages look like they are from the government, businesses you deal with or even your own family or friends to try to catch you out.
Scam calls are more than annoying – they cost Australians $141 million in losses last year.
Scam emails look like the real thing, but watch out for links and attachments designed to steal your money or information.
Be suspicious of anyone who unexpectedly contacts you on social media. Scammers use these platforms to gain your trust and steal your money.
Scammers can pretend to be anyone online to deceive you into trusting them.
Some scams take place in person.
Types of scams
Scammers use dating or friendship to get your money. They work hard to make you think the relationship is real, then manipulate you to give them money. Romance scams leave you broke and broken-hearted.
If you're looking to make money through investing, watch out – scammers have created all sorts of fake opportunities to get you excited and take away your cash.
Scammers prey on consumers and businesses that are buying or selling products and services. Not every transaction is legitimate.
Scammers will use any means possible to steal your identity or your money – including threatening your life or 'hijacking' your computer.
Jobs and employment scams deceive you into handing over your money by offering you a ‘guaranteed’ way to make fast money or a high-paying job for little effort.
Don't be lured by a surprise win. These scams try to deceive you into giving money upfront or your personal information in order to receive a prize from a lottery or competition that you never entered.
Scammers impersonate trusted businesses, friends or family, to steal your money or personal information.