How to check for scams, recognise if you or someone you know is being scammed, what to do about different types of scams, and how to stay up to date with recent scam activity.
There are many different types of scams, and they have become more sophisticated over time.
If someone contacts you unexpectedly – whether over the phone, through the post, by email, on a website, in person or on social media – always consider the possibility that it may be a scam.
Scammers go to great lengths to appear trustworthy but there are things you can do to recognise and act against scams. If it’s possible you are being scammed, figure out what’s happening and what you can do about it.
How to check for scams
If someone sends you an email
If someone calls you on the phone
If someone knocks on your door
When you shop online
See our online shopping advice for more:
Sender not recognised
Ignore text messages or emails claiming you have won something. Unless you have recently entered a competition, this kind of message is a scam.
Scam stories
Stories to show how different types of scams work. Click through these types of scams for examples of how they work.
Get scam alerts online
Every day we are more and more exposed to scams at home, at work and at play. One way you can protect yourself is by staying up to date with the latest scams.
Check scam alerts on Netsafe's latest scams page:
Latest Scams(external link) — Netsafe
Follow our Scamwatch page on Facebook for all the latest scam news and updates.
Reporting scams protects us all
Reporting a scam is important, whether for yourself or on behalf of someone else. Reporting puts you in touch with someone who can give advice specific to your situation. It also helps other people avoid similar scams.