If you’ve fallen victim to a scam, it’s important to take immediate action to protect yourself and minimize the damage. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Follow these steps:
Financial Loss
- Contact your bank or financial institution right away if your banking details have been compromised. They can assist you in securing your accounts and preventing further unauthorized transactions.
- If you’ve lost money through a scam using credit card payments, get in touch with your credit card provider immediately. Request a chargeback to potentially recover your funds.
- Facing financial difficulties after sending money to scammers? We understand how overwhelming that can be. Reach out to the National Debt Helpline for free, confidential financial counseling. They’ll provide independent advice tailored to your situation. Call them at 1800 007 007.
Personal Information Loss
- If your identity information has been compromised or misused, contact IDCARE, a national identity and cyber support service. They specialize in assisting scam victims like you. Reach out to them at 1800 595 160.
- Have you lost important information related to Centrelink, Medicare, child support, or myGov? Don’t panic. The Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk is there to support you. They’ll guide you on protecting your personal information. Get in touch with them at 1800 941 126 or via email.
Loss of Account Information
- If you’ve shared sensitive account information such as PIN verification codes or passwords with scammers, time is of the essence. Contact your account provider immediately to secure your accounts and prevent unauthorized access.
- When resetting passwords, remember to create strong ones. Use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password generator for added security. Regularly update your passwords to stay one step ahead of scammers.
Dealing with Blackmail
- Have you been blackmailed or currently facing blackmail? You’re not alone. Seek assistance from the eSafety Commissioner. They can provide the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
Remember, taking prompt action is crucial. Stay strong, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We’re here for you every step of the way.
(Source: ACCC – Australian Competition and Consumer Commission)
