How to Spot a Scam Text or Email

Hello, you.

Scammers are good at their jobs. You don't have to be an expert, you just need to know the signs.

THE WARNING SIGNS

  • It's urgent. "Your account will be closed today." Real organisations give you time.
  • There's a link in a text. Banks, the ATO and myGov won't text you a link to log in.
  • It asks for a code, password or PIN. Nobody legitimate needs your one-time code.
  • It wants payment in gift cards, crypto or a bank transfer to a new account.
  • "Hi Mum, I've got a new number." Call your child on their old number before doing anything.

WHAT TO DO

  1. Don't click, don't reply, don't call the number in the message.
  2. Contact the organisation yourself, using the number on their website or your card.
  3. Report it at scamwatch.gov.au.
  4. If you've lost money or shared bank details, call your bank straight away.

More help: Scamwatch and eSafety Commissioner


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