Scams are becoming more frequent and more sophisticated in Victoria, and it is critical that every member of our community knows how to protect themselves. Below are ten strategies designed to help you stay safe.

1. Be suspicious of any unexpected contact

If you receive an unsolicited phone call, email, text, or home visit, treat it with caution. Scammers often pretend to be from the government, banks, utility companies, or even charities.

2. Never share personal or banking details

Don’t give out your name, date of birth, Medicare, Centrelink, pension, bank account, or card details to anyone unless you are 100% certain they are legitimate. A real organisation will never pressure you to share these details.

3. Don’t trust caller ID

Scammers can 'spoof' phone numbers to make it look like they’re calling from a trusted organisation. If in doubt, hang up and call the company back using an official phone number (from a bill or website, not from the caller).

4. Be cautious with links and attachments

Don’t click on links in emails or text messages, and don’t download attachments unless you’re expecting them. Many scams spread through fake Australia Post, toll, or tax messages. Check website's and files here with these hand tools from Nord VPN. here: Click here to check a URL - 

5. Don’t rush – scammers create urgency

Scammers often say things like 'act now', 'your account will be locked', or 'you’ll be arrested'. Take your time. Genuine organisations will give you space to make decisions.

6. Protect your devices

Install security software on your phone, tablet, or computer and keep it updated. Use strong, unique passwords (or a password manager) and enable two-factor authentication where possible.

7. Say NO to ANY remote access

Never let someone you don’t know take remote control of your device (for example, through programs like AnyDesk or TeamViewer). Banks, Telstra, or the ATO will never ask you to do this.

8. Be cautious with online romance and friendships

Romance scammers target older people through dating sites and social media. Be wary if someone you haven’t met in person asks for money, gift cards, or bank transfers.

9. Check before paying

Double-check payment requests, invoices, or charity appeals. Call the organisation directly using official contact details to confirm if it’s real.

10. Report and seek help and raise awareness with your family & friends by having conversations

If you think you’ve been targeted or scammed, don’t feel ashamed — it happens to many people. Contact your bank immediately if you’ve given out financial details. Report scams to Scamwatch (ACCC) at www.scamwatch.gov.au or call 13 72 26 (National Debt Helpline) if you need financial advice. For emotional support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or you can speak to any of our advocates here at Help is at Hand - we are committed to breaking the stigma and shame and banding together to protect each other from scammers.

Just to reiterate:

1. Terminate suspicious phone calls immediately
2. Do not click on links in unsolicited messages
3. Verify all payment requests through official channels
4. Strengthen account security with strong, unique passwords
5. Pause and consider before sending money
6. Exercise caution when shopping online
7. Be vigilant in online relationships
8. Stay up-to-date with official scam alerts
9. Say NO to any remote access on any of your devices
10. Foster open conversations about scams