Is this order or prize text from Big W a scam?
Scammers impersonate trusted retailers like Big W with fake order-problem, prize and gift-card messages. A text, email or message that looks like it's from Big W can be genuine — but it can just as easily be a scam built to look identical. The good news: a few quick checks almost always tell a real Big W message from a fake.
Genuine Big W links only ever go to bigw.com.au. Below is exactly what a real Big W message looks like, the scams currently circulating in its name, the red flags that give a fake away, and a real example to compare against. Got a message in front of you? Check it now for an instant verdict.
What a real Big W message looks like
Genuine messages from Big W only ever link to bigw.com.au.
- Big W never sends SMS messages from short codes or random numbers; any text claiming to be from them should be treated as suspicious.
- Genuine Big W emails always come from addresses ending in @bigw.com.au.
- Big W does not run surprise gift-card giveaways that require you to click a link or enter card details.
- Real Big W communications about orders or delivery use your Big W account login on bigw.com.au to show status.
- Big W never asks you to install apps or verify account details via a link in an unsolicited message.
Crucially, Big W will never tell you that you've won a prize you didn't enter, or ask for card details to 'release' an order, over SMS.
Common Big W scams
- Scammers send SMS or email claiming you have won a Big W gift card and directing you to a fake site to claim it.
- Fraudsters create lookalike websites such as bigw-giftclaim.com or bigw-secure-login.com that mimic the Big W checkout page.
- Messages pretend to be a Big W order confirmation or delivery notice and ask you to click an urgent link to reschedule or pay a fee.
Red flags to watch for
- The message contains a shortened link or a domain that is not bigw.com.au.
- It urges immediate action such as claiming a free gift card before it expires.
- The sender address or link uses words like secure, verify, gift or rewards alongside Big W branding.
- You are asked to enter personal details or payment information on a page that does not show the real bigw.com.au address in the browser bar.
- The message references an order or prize you did not place or enter.
Scam text examples
Here's a real example of a scam message impersonating Big W, with the tell-tale red flags highlighted. Compare it against anything you've received.
Hi, you've been selected for a $100 Big W gift card! Claim it now before it expires: https://bigw-giftclaim.com/au/rewards
What gives it away:
- The message contains a shortened link or a domain that is not bigw.com.au.
- It urges immediate action such as claiming a free gift card before it expires.
- The sender address or link uses words like secure, verify, gift or rewards alongside Big W branding.
- You are asked to enter personal details or payment information on a page that does not show the real bigw.com.au address in the browser bar.
- The message references an order or prize you did not place or enter.
Not sure about your message?
Paste the suspicious Big W text or email and get an instant scam verdict, free.
How to verify a message from Big W
- Type bigw.com.au directly into your browser and log in to check any order or offer.
- Use the official Big W app downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Where to report a scam impersonating Big W
Received — or fell for — a message impersonating Big W? Report it. It helps authorities and carriers shut the campaign down for everyone who gets the next one.
- Scamwatch — Report the scam to the ACCC's national scam service.
- ReportCyber — Report cybercrime and financial loss to the police.
- ACMA — Report scam texts and spam SMS or calls.
- Forward to 7226 (SPAM) — Forward the scam SMS to short code 7226 so your carrier can block the source.
- IDCARE — Free identity and cyber support if your details were taken.
Frequently asked questions
I got a text saying I won a Big W gift card — is it a scam?
Yes. Big W does not run gift-card giveaways via SMS. Delete the message and do not click any links.
How can I check if a Big W email is real?
Only trust emails that come from an address ending in @bigw.com.au. Log in at bigw.com.au yourself rather than clicking links.
What should I do if I clicked a link in a fake Big W message?
Visit scamwatch.gov.au for steps to secure your accounts and consider contacting IDCARE on 1300 432 273 if personal details were entered.
Related scam types
Scams impersonating Big W usually fit one of these patterns. Learn how each works:
Related brands
Other retail names scammers impersonate — check a message from one:
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — always verify with Big W through an official channel.