Australians have experienced significant losses due to scams, with reported figures exceeding $119 million in just the first four months of 2025. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) reveals that, while the total number of scam reports decreased by nearly 25% to 72,230, the monetary losses surged alarmingly, with phishing scams alone costing Australians approximately $13.7 million—nearly tripling from the previous year.
The ACCC’s Deputy Chair, Catriona Lowe, emphasizes the importance of collaboration between businesses to combat these increasingly sophisticated scams. “Scams are impacting Australians of all ages, often initiated through unexpected social media contacts or other digital platforms,” she stated. To address this, the National Anti-Scam Centre encourages organizations such as banks and telecommunications companies to share data to disrupt these fraudulent activities more effectively.
While traditional phone scams are diminishing—registered losses dropped by 11%—they still account for the largest proportion of financial harm, totaling $25.8 million. Notably, seniors aged 65 and older are particularly vulnerable, suffering losses upwards of $33 million in this recent timeframe.
Lowe advises Australians to remain vigilant. “While the average losses per victim have slightly decreased, the total financial impact and number of victims remind us all to stay alert,” she added. She encourages individuals to report suspicious activities to help build a clearer picture of scam tactics and protect others from falling victim.
The stark rise in social media-related scams and the significant financial toll they have taken underscores the urgent need for collective awareness. By sharing information and taking proactive measures, communities can enhance protection against the evolving landscape of fraudulent schemes.
These insights not only reflect a pressing issue but also convey a hopeful message: increased vigilance, communication among organizations, and public engagement can play a pivotal role in safeguarding Australians from the threats posed by scammers.
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