Scammers use a wide range of tactics, but many scams have common warning signs.
Understanding how scams work can help you recognise them and avoid becoming a victim.
Text Message Scams
Scammers send fake text messages designed to convince you to click a link, visit a website or provide personal information.
Common examples include:
- Toll payment messages
- Parcel delivery notifications
- Account verification requests
- Prize or competition messages
Warning signs
- Unexpected messages, likely from an unknown number
- Message creates urgency
- Requests for personal or financial information
- Links to an unfamiliar website
Phone Scams
Scammers call pretending to be organisations you know and trust.
Common examples include:
- Bank scams
- Government agency scams
- Technical support scams
- Telecommunications provider scams
Warning signs
- Upgrade or new product offers, not able to be verified online
- Requests for passwords or security codes
- Pressure to act immediately
- Instructions to move money
- Requests to install software
Email or Messaging Platform Scams
Scammers send emails, messages or create fake websites that look genuine.
Their goal is to steal account credentials, financial information or other personal information.
Common examples include:
- Fake provider organisation websites
- Login verification requests
- Account security alerts
- Subscription renewal notices
Investment Scams
Scammers promote fake investment opportunities that promise high returns with little or no risk.
Common examples include:
- Cryptocurrency investments
- Trading platforms
- Share market schemes
- Overseas investment opportunities
Relationship Scams
Scammers build trust and emotional connections before asking for money or encouraging investment activity.
Common examples include:
- Dating app scams
- Romance scams
- Friendship scams
- Hybrid relationship and investment scams
Marketplace Scams
Scammers target consumers buying or selling items online.
Common examples include:
- Fake sellers
- Fake buyers
- Payment confirmation scams
- Courier scams
Job Scams
Scammers advertise fake jobs to obtain money or personal information.
Common examples include:
- Work-from-home opportunities
- Task-based jobs
- Fake recruitment agencies
- Payment processing jobs
Invoice Scams
Scammers send fake or altered invoices, often pretending to represent legitimate businesses.
These scams can affect individuals and businesses.
Remote Access Scams
Scammers claim a device has a problem and convince victims to install software or provide remote access.
This is often presented as technical support.