Recently, a close friend of mine—let’s call him Paul Steele to protect his privacy—found himself the victim of a devastating scam. Paul, who is in the early stages of dementia, received a call from someone claiming his daughter had lost her phone. The scammer told him the only way he could help her was to hand over his credit cards to a taxi driver who would appear at his door. Despite his instincts warning him otherwise, his love for his daughter clouded his judgement, and he complied.

Paul’s quick thinking, even in this distressing situation, led him to ask the taxi driver where he lived. The response raises questions about whether the driver was complicit in the scam. This cruel incident highlights how even the most vigilant can fall victim, especially when emotions are manipulated. It also raises a crucial question: what should you do if you’ve been scammed?

Here is a step-by-step guide Australians to follow if you or someone you know has been targeted by a scam:

1. Act immediately to protect your finances

• Contact your bank or financial institution: Notify them that you’ve been scammed and ask them to freeze your accounts and credit cards. Most banks have a 24/7 hotline for emergencies.
• Cancel your cards and request new ones: This prevents further unauthorised transactions.
• Check your accounts: Look for any unauthorised transactions and report them to your bank.

2. Report the scam

• Scamwatch (ACCC): File a report at scamwatch.gov.au. This helps authorities track and prevent future scams.
• Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC): If the scam involved online activity, report it at cyber.gov.au.
• Police: While not all scams are criminal offences, reporting to your local police station provides an official record.

3. Protect your identity

• Contact IDCARE: IDCARE is a free, government-funded service that helps Australians respond to identity theft and fraud. Visit idcare.org or call 1800 595 160.
• Monitor your credit report: Request a free credit report from agencies like Equifax, Experian, or illion to check for unusual activity.

4. Seek support

Being scammed can leave you feeling vulnerable and ashamed, but you’re not alone. Reach out to:

• Trusted friends or family members for emotional support.
• Services like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14) if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

5. Learn and share

• Familiarise yourself with common scams: The ACCC’s Scamwatch website lists current scams and tips to avoid them.
• Talk to others: Sharing your story might protect someone else from falling victim.

Paul’s story is a painful reminder of how scams prey on our trust and emotions. It’s essential to take these steps swiftly to limit the damage and to share knowledge that empowers others to stay safe.

If you or someone you know has been scammed, acting promptly can make all the difference. Let’s protect ourselves and each other by staying informed and vigilant.