What to do if things go wrong
If you think you’ve been scammed there are steps you can take to limit the damage and protect yourself from further harm.
- Contact your bank or financial institution. If you’ve sent money or your personal banking details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. They may be able to help stop a money transfer or cheque, investigate a fraudulent credit card transaction, or close your account if the scammer has your details.
- Report to authorities. If you have been a victim of a crime (such as fraud), report it to the Australian Cyber Security Centre's ReportCyber.
- Report scams to Scamwatch. Report the scam to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch.
- Contact IDCare. If you think you’ve been the victim of identity theft, act quickly. Contact IDCare on 1800 595 160 or use their free Cyber First Aid Kit to help you work out what to do.
And remember, if you deal with Australian companies, you’re covered by Australian consumer law and in a better position to solve any potential problems.
So how can you stay safe?
ACSC has teamed up with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch, the Office of the eSafety Commissioner and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner to bring you tips and resources to help you stay safe online at holiday time.
Check out our handy online shopping checklist in the downloads to the right.
