What to Do If You've Been Scammed in Australia

Being scammed can feel overwhelming, but acting quickly can significantly reduce the damage. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, step by step, with all the Australian contacts and resources you need.

Step 1: Stop All Communication

If the scam is ongoing:

• Stop replying to messages, emails, or calls from the scammer
• Block the number or email address
• Don't send any more money, even if threatened

Step 2: Secure Your Finances

If you've shared financial information or sent money:

1. Contact your bank immediately — call the number on the back of your card
2. Request a freeze on affected accounts
3. Cancel any pending transfers if possible
4. Request new cards if card details were compromised
5. Change your internet banking password from a clean device

Major bank fraud contacts:

• Commonwealth Bank: 13 22 21
• Westpac: 1300 131 372
• ANZ: 13 33 50
• NAB: 13 22 65

Step 3: Secure Your Identity

If you've shared personal documents or information:

1. Contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160 — Australia's national identity and cyber support service
2. Place a ban on your credit file with all three bureaus:
   • Equifax: equifax.com.au (13 83 32)
   • Illion: illion.com.au
   • Experian: experian.com.au
3. Change passwords on all online accounts, especially email and banking
4. Enable two-factor authentication on all important accounts
5. Contact Services Australia on 136 150 if your myGov or Centrelink details were compromised

Step 4: Report the Scam

Reporting helps authorities track scam patterns and protect others:

1. Scamwatch — scamwatch.gov.au or 1300 795 995 (ACCC)
2. ReportCyber — cyber.gov.au or 1300 292 371 (Australian Cyber Security Centre)
3. Your state police — if you've lost significant money, file a police report
4. The platform — report the scammer's account on the social media or messaging platform used

Scam-Specific Reporting

Scam Type	Additional Report To
Investment scam	ASIC — 1300 300 630
Crypto scam	ASIC — 1300 300 630
Online shopping	ACCC — scamwatch.gov.au
Tax/ATO scam	ATO — 13 28 61
Medicare/Centrelink	Services Australia — 136 150
Superannuation	APRA — 1300 558 849

Step 5: Protect Your Devices

If you installed software at a scammer's request or clicked suspicious links:

1. Disconnect from the internet
2. Run a full antivirus scan (Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, or similar)
3. Remove any remote access software (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.)
4. Update your operating system and all applications
5. Change passwords from a different, clean device

Step 6: Monitor and Follow Up

In the weeks following a scam:

• Check bank statements weekly for unauthorised transactions
• Monitor your credit report for applications you didn't make
• Watch your mail for unexpected bills or notifications
• Be alert for follow-up scams — scammers sell victim lists to other scammers

Step 7: Get Support

Being scammed takes an emotional toll. Support is available:

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (mental health support)
• IDCARE: 1800 595 160 (identity theft counselling)
• Financial Counselling Australia: 1800 007 007 (free financial counselling)

Prevention Going Forward

• Use Ask Arthur (askarthur.au) to check suspicious messages before responding
• Never share personal information with unsolicited callers
• Enable two-factor authentication on all accounts
• Keep software and devices updated
• Be sceptical of offers that seem too good to be true