Have you been scammed? Unfortunately, many people are scammed every year in Australia. While it is very difficult to track down the person or group who has scammed you, there are some steps you can take straight away to reduce the damage. You may also be a target for a ‘follow-up’ scam, so you need to take action to stop the scammers succeeding again.
If you suspect or you know that you have been scammed, you should take the time to report it. By making a report to the appropriate government agency, you help them identify scammers and warn other people about the swindle.
You should also warn your friends and family so they do not become a victim as well. Let your local Neighbourhod Watch group know too so they can alert residents through their email database, newsletters, at their meetings etc. By sharing your story, you are helping to fight back against the scammers.
You can report the scam online at www.scamwatch.gov.au – once there you can report the scam using their online form. The SCAMWatch website is run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams.
You can also call SCAMwatch at the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 795 995. This centre operates from 9am to 5pm weekdays, except public holidays. Call this number if you:
• cannot find the information you need on the SCAMwatch website
• have a question or concern
• are in the process of sending money and are unsure if it is a scam
• have lost money or have not received goods or services that you paid for
• are the victim of a scam or are concerned about someone who you think has been scammed
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