Introduction
According to the latest annual Targeting Scams report by the ACCC, scammers stole over $66 million from Indigenous Australians, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, and people with disabilities in 2021. These vulnerable communities were specifically targeted, resulting in significant financial losses.
Indigenous Australians Hit Hard
In 2021, Scamwatch received 4,958 reports from Indigenous Australians, with total losses amounting to $4.8 million. This marks a 43% increase in reports and a staggering 142% increase in losses compared to the previous year. Investment scams proved to be the most financially damaging for Indigenous communities, followed by phishing and romance scams.
CALD Communities Affected
Scams impacting CALD communities accounted for 5% of all reports to Scamwatch and 13% of total losses. Members of CALD communities reported losses of $42 million, an 88% increase from 2020. Investment scams were the most financially damaging, with romance scams and scams involving threats also causing significant losses. On average, members of CALD communities who reported a financial loss lost $1,200.
People with Disabilities Targeted
People with disabilities made 15,387 reports to Scamwatch in 2021 and suffered losses exceeding $19.6 million. This represents a 104% increase in reports and a 102% increase in financial losses compared to the previous year. The ACCC emphasizes the need for more action to protect vulnerable consumers and encourages the wider community to share scam warnings.
Taking Action Against Scams
The ACCC engages in Indigenous outreach programs and shares scam warnings on platforms like the Your Rights Mob Facebook page. Consumers can follow @scamwatch_gov on Twitter and subscribe to Scamwatch radar alerts for up-to-date information.
The ACCC’s Little Black Book of Scams, available in ten languages, serves as a valuable resource for understanding and avoiding scams.
Let’s work together to protect vulnerable communities from falling victim to scams and financial exploitation.
