The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) notes in its Scam Alert that if you’ve identified or encountered a scam, report it to www.scamwatch.gov.au,, and then tell someone – a friend, family, colleague or someone in your social circle.
“By sharing your story, you can help to prevent someone else from having their money or personal information taken by a scammer,” cautions ACMA:
Remember to:
- Stop: Don’t give money or personal information to anyone if unsure. Say no, hang up, delete.
- Check: Scammers pretend to be from organisations you know and trust – like myGov, your bank, the police or government. If you’re unsure, contact the organisation using details you’ve looked up yourself via an official website or app.
- Report: The more we talk, the less power they have. Report scams to scamwatch.gov.au when you see them.
Scams Awareness Week is an annual campaign hosted by the ACCC and the Scams Awareness Network and supported by the ACMA. It raises awareness about common scams and offers tips on how people can protect themselves from scammers.
Keep an eye on our Facebook, X and LinkedIn channels this week as we share tips on how to protect yourself from scams. You can also visit the Scams Awareness Week website for more information.