What to do if you've been scammed

Seven steps — in this order

1. 1 Stop all contact immediately Don't reply to messages, don't call back on any number the scammer gave you, and don't click any more links. If someone has remote access to your computer — if your screen is being controlled — turn the computer off at the power button right now.
2. 2 Don't send any more money Even if the caller says it's to "reverse" the scam, "protect" your remaining funds, or complete a transaction already in progress. This is a common second stage — stop completely, regardless of what they say.
3. 3 Lock your banking Open your banking app and lock your cards now. If you're not sure how, call your bank's fraud line — using a number you find yourself, on the back of your card or the bank's official website. Do not use any number the caller gave you. See our guide to keeping your banking safe for specific steps for each Australian bank.
4. 4 Change your passwords If you shared a password with the caller, or gave them access to your email, computer, or banking account, change those passwords now. If you need help with this, call us or a trusted family member.
5. 5 Report it to Scamwatch Reporting helps warn other Australians about the same scam. You can report online at scamwatch.gov.au or call 1300 795 995. You don't need every detail — even a basic report is valuable.
6. 6 Contact IDCARE if personal details were shared If you gave the caller your name, date of birth, Medicare number, driver's licence, or any other personal identification — contact IDCARE. They are a free, independent service that helps Australians recover from identity theft. Call 1800 595 160 or visit idcare.org.
7. 7 Tell someone you trust Tell a family member, a close friend, or your doctor. Telling someone means you have support, and it means someone you trust knows what happened. There is nothing to be embarrassed about — these are sophisticated criminals, not a reflection of anything you did wrong.