Scam calls in Australia: how to spot them and report them
Quick answer
A call that asks for payments, passwords, one-time codes or remote access is probably a scam, and the number can be faked. Hang up, look up the organisation's number yourself and call back, then report it to Scamwatch.
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How it works
Scam callers pretend to be a bank, a government body or a telco and say something is wrong: a hacked account, a debt, a threat of arrest. Scamwatch's guidance says it's probably a scam call if the caller asks for personal or financial information.
They can disguise their number to look local or official, so the caller ID tells you little. Being on the Do Not Call register doesn't stop scammers either.
They push for passwords, one-time codes, payments or remote access to your device.
Red flags
- A caller who asks for payments, passwords or one-time codes
- Threats of arrest or claims your accounts were hacked
- A call that creates pressure to act now
- A number that looks local but you don't know who it is
- A caller who wants remote access to your device
- A request to use contact details the caller gives you
Example message
This is the fraud team at your bank. We've seen suspicious activity on your account. To secure it, read me the code we just sent you, or call [phone number] now.
What to do
- 1
Hang up
If you're unsure who's calling, hang up. Let calls from unknown numbers go to voicemail.
- 2
Call back on a number you look up
Find the organisation's number on its official website or the back of your card. Don't use any contact details the caller gave you.
- 3
If you gave out details
Contact your bank and phone provider straight away. Change passwords on accounts you mentioned.
- 4
Use Stop, Check, Protect
The National Anti-Scam Centre's advice: stop, check who you're really dealing with, and protect yourself if it was a scam.
- 5
Report it
Report the call to Scamwatch. ACMA also publishes guidance on phone and SMS scams.
Report it
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.
Why you got it
Scam callers dial in bulk, but a call that uses your name or an account detail sounds more real. Names, phone numbers and addresses come from people-search sites and old data breaches. Serus finds the broker and people-search sites that list your details and requests removal, and alerts you when your info shows up in a breach.
Frequently asked
Can scammers fake a number that looks local?
Yes. ACMA notes scammers can disguise their number to look like they're calling from somewhere local.
Does the Do Not Call register stop scam calls?
No. Scamwatch notes you can still get scam calls even if you're on the register.
Will my bank ask for a one-time code on the phone?
Treat any call that asks for a one-time code or password as a scam. Hang up and call your bank on the number on your card.
Where do I report a scam call?
Report it to Scamwatch. If you lost money, call your bank and phone provider straight away.
Sources
Something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we'll re-check it.
