Online scams have cost Australians nearly $260 million to September this year amid warnings to take care as Black Friday sales loom.
From January to September, the National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch service says it received 159,319 reports of financial losses totalling $259.5 million; a 16% increase in losses and 20% fall in reports compared to last year.
And as Australians gear up for Black Friday sales, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says shoppers must remain alert to scams disguised as deals.
It says shopping scams were the most common type of financial loss reported this year; 9628 out of 19,662 reports involved losses of $8.6m, up 19% on reported losses in 2024.
“Scammers love Black Friday sales because they know shoppers are looking for bargains and they rely on creating urgency and pressure that can come with a busy shopping period,” ACCC Deputy Chairwoman Catriona Lowe says.
“We remind consumers to take their time, check the legitimacy of websites and its offers, and be cautious about sharing personal or financial information online.
“A few simple checks before making a purchase can make all the difference in avoiding a scam and keeping your money safe.”
Online content, such as fake websites, advertisements, social media, and mobile apps, were the most preferred method used by scammers for initial contact; that resulted in a loss of $122 million, comprising 47% of overall scam losses.
Some shopping scams involve hacking social media accounts; hacked accounts are increasingly used by scammers to target a victim’s personal networks, particularly on Facebook and Instagram.
After gaining access, scammers impersonate the account holder to promote scams such as fake ticket sales, ‘fire sales’, grant offers and investment schemes.
They compromise friends’ accounts by asking for one-time codes under false pretences, enabling a chain of account takeovers.
“We continue to urge Australians to verify who they are communicating with online, as scammers leverage trusted relationships and social platforms to manipulate people into handing over money and personal information,” Ms Lowe said.
“You should be aware that online friend accounts can be compromised, so avoid clicking on any links and always do your own checks before paying money.
“A good way to check is to contact them through another means, such as by phone or text message. This can also alert your friend so they can take prompt action to recover their account.”
The National Anti-Scam Centre is also seeing more people report financial losses among vulnerable communities; with a 12% rise for people with a disability, 35% for those who speak English as a second language and 50% for First Nations people.
The Scamwatch website recently published resources for people to provide support to loved ones who may be targeted by scammers, including red flag signs, conversation starters and manipulation tactics used by scammers.
“We strongly encourage people to check in with their loved ones and start the conversation about scams. Scammers are criminals who target anyone,” Lowe says.
“Starting an honest conversation about scams can take away the fear and embarrassment that often stop people from speaking up. Listening with compassion and without judgement helps them feel supported and understood.”
STAY SAFE FROM SCAMS
STOP. Always take a moment before giving your money or personal information to anyone. Scammers will create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly. Don’t rush to make decisions about money or sharing personal details.
What to do: Say no, hang up, or delete suspicious messages. Take time to think before responding to unexpected requests. Don’t let anyone pressure you into immediate action. Trust your instincts if something feels wrong.
CHECK. Make sure the person or organisation you’re dealing with is real. Scammers pretend to be from organisations you know and trust. Always verify who you’re really dealing with before taking any action.
What to do: Contact the person or organisation directly using phone numbers or email addresses you find on their official website or app. Research investment opportunities or offers through official sources like ASIC. Get a second opinion from family, friends, or professionals.
PROTECT. Act quickly if it something feels wrong. The sooner you act, the better you can protect yourself and others from scammers.
What to do: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve lost money or shared financial details. Contact IDCARE (www.idcare.org or call 1800 595 160) if you want support to recover – they can help you create a plan to the limit damage of scams. Report to Scamwatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au) to help protect others. Report to police (www.cyber.gov.au). Change passwords and security details if you think they’ve been compromised. Monitor your bank statements and credit reports for unusual activity. Report the scam to the impersonated organisation and platform where the scam is happening
Being scammed can feel overwhelming. Support is available at Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
Submit an online enquiry to ask a question or make a report to the ACCC.
