Beware of scams

Protect yourself from scams

Scammers use telecommunications channels -texts, calls, emails and messaging apps – to imitate trusted organisations and people. As the peak body for Australia’s mobile industry, AMTA works with members and regulators to reduce these harms by supporting network‑level blocking, stronger rules, and consumer education. This protection guide is regularly updated so you can rely on it to stay informed and take practical steps to keep yourself and your family safe.

Why it matters: In 2024, combined reports to key agencies still showed around $2.0 billion in scam losses, with investment scams the most damaging. While losses fell compared to 2023, the risk remains significant. [scamwatch.gov.au]

What scams look like today

Impersonation texts and calls (banks, delivery services, myGov, telcos) that try to panic you into clicking a link or sharing a code. [acma.gov.au]
Investment scams that begin on social media or messaging apps and push “can’t‑miss” returns. [scamwatch.gov.au]
Remote‑access scams where a caller asks you to install software so they can “fix” a problem or “secure” your account. [accc.gov.au]
Payment redirection and phishing emails/SMS that send you to convincing fake websites to steal logins or payments. [accc.gov.au]

Good news: Telcos, under ACMA’s rules, have blocked 2.3+ billion scam calls (since Dec 2020) and 857+ million scam SMS (since July 2022), but some still get through, so personal vigilance is critical. [acma.gov.au]

AMTA’s role in reducing scams

AMTA supports industry action that makes Australia a harder target for scammers, including compliance with the Reducing Scam Calls and Scam SMS Industry Code (C661:2022) and collaboration with ACMA to block malicious traffic at scale. Telcos report 2.3+ billion scam calls and 857+ million scam SMS blocked to the end of 2024 – evidence that network‑level defences are working alongside consumer awareness. [acma.gov.au]

AMTA also manages the Mobile Device Safety Program to block stolen phones from Australian networks. Read more about this initiative here.

How scammers target mobile users

Spoofed sender IDs in SMS make a message look like it’s from a brand you know. A national SMS Sender ID register is being implemented to curb this tactic. [acma.gov.au], [australian…ine.com.au]
Look‑alike links (e.g., mygov.au‑secure[.]com) and fake support pages harvest passwords. [accc.gov.au]
One‑time codes: criminals try to trick you into sharing MFA/SMS codes to take over your accounts. [acma.gov.au]
SIM‑swap/porting attempts move your number to another SIM to intercept calls and codes. ACMA requires stronger ID checks by telcos to stop this. [acma.gov.au]

How to protect yourself (everyday habits)

Don’t click links or open attachments from unexpected texts, emails or DMs. Go to the website or app yourself.

Never share one‑time codes or passwords—no legitimate business will ask.

Use strong, unique passwords (consider a password manager) and turn on multi‑factor authentication (MFA) for email, banking and socials.

Keep your phone and apps up to date to patch security flaws.

Install official apps only (App Store/Google Play) and disable app sideloading.

Set account alerts in your banking app and telco account to spot unusual activity early.

What to do if something goes wrong

Stop: Do not respond, and don’t send money or more information.
Contact your bank immediately using the number on the back of your card or the bank’s official app/website. Ask for transactions to be halted and accounts secured.
Secure your accounts: Change passwords, enable MFA, and log out of other sessions.
Report it:
1. Scamwatch (NASC/ACCC) to help warnings and disruption efforts. [scamwatch.gov.au]
2. ReportCyber / ACSC for cyber incidents and technical guidance. [acma.gov.au]
Call your mobile provider if you suspect a SIM‑swap or porting attempt so they can lock your account.
Keep evidence (screenshots, emails, sender details) for your bank and authorities.

Quick actions (save this list)

Don’t click unfamiliar links.
Don’t share verification codes—ever.
Check using official apps/websites only.
Call your bank and telco fast if in doubt.
Report to Scamwatch and ACSC. [scamwatch.gov.au], [acma.gov.au]

Stay informed (trusted sources)

Scamwatch (National Anti‑Scam Centre) – latest alerts, trends and where to report. [scamwatch.gov.au]
Australian Cyber Security Centre (gov.au) – practical cyber security advice and incident reporting.
ACMA – the telco regulator’s rules and actions that reduce phone/SMS scams. [acma.gov.au]

Notes on data usage

Combined losses in 2024 and top scam types are from the National Anti‑Scam Centre’s Targeting Scams 2024 update (released March 11, 2025). [scamwatch.gov.au], [accc.gov.au]
Blocking statistics (calls/SMS) and telco obligations are from ACMA updates and guidance. [acma.gov.au], [acma.gov.au]