Common scam types in Australia

Most scams reaching Australians follow a handful of well-worn playbooks. Each guide below explains how the scam works, the warning signs to watch for, and what to do if you've been targeted. Got a specific message? Check it now for an instant verdict.

• Bank Impersonation ScamsScammers pose as your bank's fraud team by phone or text — often spoofing the bank's real number or landing in the same SMS thread as genuine messages — to 'protect' your money. The goal is your login details, your one-time security codes, or convincing you to move funds to a so-called safe account. These are among the most financially devastating scams reported in Australia.
• Delivery & Parcel ScamsFake 'missed delivery' texts and emails impersonating Australia Post, DHL, FedEx and other couriers are among the most common scams hitting Australian phones. They claim a parcel is held up — wrong address, unpaid fee, failed delivery — and push you to a fake tracking or payment page built to steal your card details.
• Unpaid Toll ScamsWaves of texts claiming you owe a few dollars in unpaid tolls — usually impersonating Linkt or E-Toll — have flooded Australian phones. The amounts are deliberately small, often around $3, but the fake payment page captures your full card details and personal information.

These guides are general information for Australians, not legal or financial advice — if you've lost money, contact your bank and report it straight away.