Skip to main content

What to do if you've been scammed

Take these steps fast if you suspect a scam

Page reading time: 4 minutes

Think you have been scammed? These steps will help you take action to limit the damage.

Know that you are not alone and you can recover from this. There is support available, if and when you need it.

Act fast if you've been scammed

If you've been scammed, follow these steps to take action.

  1. Don't send any more money. Block all contact from the scammer.
  2. Contact your bank or financial institution immediately to report the scam. Ask them to stop any transactions.
  3. Warn your family and friends about the scam, so they can watch out for potential follow up scams.

If you've paid a scammer

If you've paid a scammer in any of these ways, here's what to do:

If a scammer has your personal information

For example, if your personal details (like name, phone, email, address, identity documents) have been leaked in a data breach. Here's what to do:

For more tips, see identity theft.

If a scammer has accessed your computer or phone 

A scammer pretends to be from your internet or phone provider. They say you have a technical problem and ask for access to your device. Then they infect it with a virus, to steal your passwords and financial information. Here's what to do:

You could also get an IT professional to check your devices in-person.

If you still need help, phone the Australian Cyber Security Hotline on 1300 292 371 (open 24 hours, 7 days a week) for expert cyber security advice, assurance and assistance. 

Watch out for follow up scams

If you've been caught up in a scam, you may be targeted in a follow-up scam. Hang up the call, or block emails or text messages, if someone:

These are all tricks scammers use to get more money from you.

Help to stop the scam

If you suspect a scam, report it to your bank or financial institution straight away.

You can also report scams directly to agencies and organisations dedicated to handling the specific type of scam. Agencies use the information you give to build cases against scammers. They also educate the public and share data about what’s happening.

Report the scam and help stop the scammer.

All scams

  • National Anti-Scams Centre (NASC)
  • The NASC collates information about all scam types and uses this information to warn and protect the public. They also send information to other agencies to build cases against scammers and help stop them.

Banking and credit card scams

  • your bank or financial institution

 

Fraud and theft

  • your local police – call 131 444
  • ReportCyber – if you think your personal information has been used

 

Financial and investment scams

Including those involving superannuation, managed funds, financial advice, financial products and insurance.

Crypto-asset scams

 

myGov and Services Australia scams (including Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support)

Tax related scams

 

Superannuation scams

 

Social media scams

  • the social media platform – to help prevent others from being scammed

 

Get support after being scammed

If a scam is causing you problems with debt, talk to a financial counsellor. This is a free and confidential service to help you get your finances back on track.

Being scammed is a horrible experience that can take a toll on your emotional wellbeing. If you need someone to talk to (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) contact: