How to Recognise and Avoid Scam Messages in Australia

• scam-messages
• online-safety
• fraud-prevention

Learn how to identify scam messages pretending to be from trusted sources. Spot red flags and keep your personal and financial information safe.

Scam Messages: What You Need to Know

Scam messages can look like they’re from trusted sources—government departments, businesses you deal with, or even family and friends. Their goal? To catch you off guard and trick you into taking immediate action. Once you click a link or provide personal information, scammers can steal your identity, drain your bank accounts, or commit fraud in your name.

How Scammers Make Messages Look Real

One of the most deceptive tactics scammers use is number and ID spoofing. They can make a message appear to come from a real business or a contact you trust. In some cases, scam messages even show up in the same message thread as genuine messages from the organisation, making them especially hard to detect.

Common Red Flags That It’s a Scam

If you receive a suspicious message, email, or call, look out for these warning signs:

• Urgent language: Messages that demand immediate action.
• Requests for payment or money transfers: Especially to new or updated bank details.
• Links to unfamiliar websites: Especially those asking for logins or financial details.
• Log in requests: Asking you to log in using provided links or enter usernames and passwords.
• Demands for personal or financial information: This includes PINs, security codes, or credit card numbers.
• Threats or scare tactics: Claims that you’ll be arrested, deported, or blackmailed.
• Unusual sender emails: Official organisations using free services like @gmail or @yahoo.com.au.

How to Stay Safe Online

Protecting yourself from scams starts with vigilance. Here are proactive steps you can take:

• Let unknown calls go to voicemail: Scammers rarely leave legitimate messages.
• Don’t trust unknown callers: It’s okay to hang up and call back using verified details.
• Use official channels: Contact companies using phone numbers or websites you find independently.
• Never click suspicious links: Instead, search for the website or use official apps to check your account status.
• Verify sender details: Especially if a message seems out of place or too urgent.

Scammers rely on urgency and fear to trick you. Slowing down, checking details, and using secure communication methods can help you avoid falling victim. Stay sharp and always verify before you act.