If you’ve fallen for a scam, you might feel a range of emotions. Anger, frustration, and fear rear their ugly heads. The good news is, that sharing your story can help prevent others from falling for the same scam.
Every year, the National Anti-Scam Centre runs a Scam Awareness Week to help Aussies stay safe in the fight against scams. This year, Aussies are urged to speak up and share how they’ve been affected by scams.
A report released earlier this year revealed that of those who have fallen victim to a scam, as much as 30% leave it unreported. Likely, these victims didn't incur any financial losses, so they didn't feel the need to report it. However, it’s also possible the victim didn't even know they were being scammed. Investment and romance scams can go on for months, or even years before the victim is aware they’re being scammed.
There’s a shame that comes with being scammed. Its common for victims to feel as if they should have seen the signs, or that there was more they could have done to prevent it. It can also cause emotional distress and can place undue financial and emotional stress on their relationship.
This campaign aims to prove that anyone can be a victim of a scam. Scammers are experts in taking advantage of people, especially those who are distracted, anxious, or vulnerable. As such, a surge in scammers is common after natural disasters, as they take to impersonating charities.
“Being scammed is a horrible experience, and it can happen to anyone. This Scams Awareness Week campaign is a chance for Australians to come together and recognise the power we have to help protect one another from scammers,” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.
If you’ve been scammed, share your experience on social media using the hashtag #ShareAScamStory. Be sure to always report scam calls or texts to your telco provider, and contact the National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch so you can protect other Aussies from falling victim to the same scams.
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