If it happened
What to do if you've been scammed
It happens to careful, clever people every day - scams are designed by professionals. What matters now is speed. Work down this list.
In the first hour
- Call your bank or card provider on the number on the back of your card or in its app. Tell them you've been scammed. Ask them to stop or recall payments and block cards. The faster you call, the better the chance.
- Stop contact with the scammer. Don't reply, don't pay "fees" to get your money back.
- If they had remote access to your computer or phone, disconnect it from the internet, uninstall the app they asked for, and have it checked before you use online banking again.
- Change passwords - email first, then banking, then everything else - and turn on two-step verification.
The same day
- IDCARE - 1800 595 160 (idcare.org): free, expert help if you've shared ID, Medicare, licence, passport or tax file number details. They'll make a plan with you.
- Scamwatch - report the scam.
- ReportCyber - cyber.gov.au for online fraud and hacking; reports go to police.
- Shared your tax file number or myGov? Contact the ATO and Services Australia.
- Shared licence or passport details? Contact the issuing agency about replacing them.
Watch out for the second scam
People who've been scammed are targeted again by "recovery" scams - fake lawyers, "fund recovery agents", hackers or even fake police who promise to get your money back for a fee. Legitimate help (your bank, IDCARE, Scamwatch, police) never charges you an upfront fee.
Look after yourself
Being scammed is a crime against you, not a failure of yours. Talk to someone you trust. If you're struggling, Lifeline is on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
Warn others
Report the number on BadCall. You don't need to say you lost money - just what they said and what they asked for. It might be the report that stops the next person.