Scams Awareness Week is an initiative of the Scams Awareness Network, a group of Australian and New Zealand government agencies with responsibility for consumer protection and policing in scams, cyber safety and fraud.
Scams cost Australians, businesses and the economy hundreds of millions of dollars each year and cause serious emotional harm to victims and their families. Between 1 January and 31 May 2019, Australians made 75 646 reports to Scamwatch, with a total loss of $46.3 million.
This Scams Awareness Week, which runs from 12-16 August 2019, Australians are urged to test whether they can spot a scam or are likely to fall victim to a scam.
There are countless types of scams, with new scams constantly emerging. While scammers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, people often believe they would never fall victim. Many Australians believe they could confidently spot a scam, or believe they would know what to do if they were targeted. Often it is this sense of confidence that scammers target and it makes everyone vulnerable. That's why we're encouraging you to ask yourself, are you too smart to be scammed?
Are you able to spot the signs of a scam?
Challenge yourself with these five examples.
Need help?
If you believe someone has gained access to your personal information, even if the scam appears unrelated to your finances, you should contact your bank immediately. A timely response can be critical in giving you the best chance to stem any loss.
- If you have concerns about your G&C Mutual Bank account contact us on 1300 364 400.
- You can find out how scams work, how to protect yourself, what to do if you’ve been scammed or report a scam to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) via the Scamwatch website www.scamwatch.gov.au.
