Protecting yourself from scams and fraud

Common scams

Scammers are constantly developing new ways to trick people into sending money or sharing personal information. Understanding how common scams work can help you recognise the warning signs and protect yourself. Here are some of the most common scams and tips on how to stay safe.

• Facebook Marketplace and online shopping scams

  Scammers pose as buyers or sellers on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or other online shopping websites.

  They may:

  • Advertise items that do not exist
  • Request payment before delivering goods
  • Send fake payment confirmations to trick sellers into handing over items

  How to protect yourself

  • Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true
  • Avoid paying for items using bank transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards
  • Avoid paying a deposit before seeing the goods in person
  • Where possible, meet the buyer or seller in person and inspect the item before paying
  • Use secure payment options available through trusted platforms
  • Check the seller's profile history, reviews, and account age
  • Be cautious if someone pressures you to pay quickly or refuses to meet in person
• Phishing and impersonation scams

  Phishing scams occur when criminals impersonate trusted organisations such as banks, government agencies (such as Australia Post), or delivery companies.

  They may contact you by email, text message, or phone and attempt to trick you into clicking links or sharing personal information.

  How to protect yourself

  • Do not click on unexpected links or attachments in emails or messages.
  • Always verify communications by contacting the organisation directly using official contact details.
  • Check the sender's email address or phone number carefully. There are often small differences that can alert you to a scam.
  • Never share passwords, security codes, or banking details in response to unsolicited messages.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) where available.
• Investment scams

  Investment scams promote fake opportunities that promise high returns with little or no risk.

  These scams often involve cryptocurrency, foreign exchange trading, or shares and may appear on social media, websites, or through direct contact.

  How to protect yourself

  • Be cautious of investments promising guaranteed or unusually high returns.
  • Check whether the company or adviser is licensed with ASIC or another relevant regulator.
  • Avoid investments that pressure you to act quickly.
  • Do not send money to people or businesses you have not independently verified.
  • Seek independent financial advice before investing.
• Remote access scams

  In remote access scams, criminals contact you pretending to be from a bank, technology company, or internet provider.

  They may say there is a problem with your device or account, and ask you to install software that allows them to remotely access your computer or phone.

  Once they gain access, scammers can steal personal information or transfer money from your accounts.

  How to protect yourself

  • Never allow unknown individuals remote access to your computer or device.
  • If you are providing remote access to a trusted source, never open internet banking.
  • Be cautious of unexpected calls about technical problems.
  • Do not download applications or software at the request of someone who contacted you unexpectedly.
  • If you are unsure, hang up and contact the organisation directly.
  • Keep your devices and security software updated.
• Romance and dating scams

  Romance scammers create fake profiles on dating websites or social media platforms to build relationships with victims.

  Over time, they gain trust and emotional connection before requesting money, often claiming it is needed for medical emergencies, travel expenses, or financial difficulties.

  How to protect yourself

  • Be cautious if someone expresses strong feelings very quickly.
  • Never send money to someone you have not met in person.
  • Be wary if they avoid video calls or meeting in person.
  • Watch for requests to move conversations off the dating platform quickly.
• Identity theft

  Identity theft occurs when criminals obtain your personal information such as your name, date of birth, address, or identification details and use it to commit fraud.

  This may include opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or making purchases in your name.

  How to protect yourself

  • Keep personal information secure and private.
  • Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
  • Regularly check your bank accounts for unusual activity.
  • Secure important documents and shred sensitive paperwork.
  • Report suspected identity theft immediately to your bank and relevant authorities.
  • Take care to avoid storing identification documents on your phone or other digital devices.