How to Report a Scam to ScamWatch
Author: Nichlaus O.
ScamWatch is an Australian government body that works as the fraud reporting agency in the country. It is run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Protection (ACCC) which “promotes competition and fair trade in markets to benefit consumers, businesses, and the community.”
How Can You Report a Scam to ScamWatch Australia?
ScamWatch does not restrict reporting of scams only to those that happen in Australia. This is such a commendable approach because cybercrime happens worldwide. It allows the collection of information globally and keeping up to date with new scams, latest scam trends, plus any other scam developments.
Here's how to report a scam to ScamWatch in 4 easy steps:
Step 1: Report A Scam
Open www.scamwatch.gov.au on your browser and select the “Report a Scam” tab on the home page.
Click Next.
Step 2: About the Scam
Enter details about the scam such as:
- What type of scam is it?
- How were you contacted by the scammer?
- When were you first contacted by the scammer?
- What losses did you suffer?
- Details of the scammer-name, email, phone number, scammer’s website
- Brief description of the scam
- Then you can attach files relevant to the scam like photos, screenshots, documents, HTML pages, and any other links.
Click Next.
Step 3: About You
Fill in your name and contact details; whether you are reporting on behalf of someone else, or a business, or wish to report anonymously.
Also, if from Australia or abroad.
Click Next.
Step 4: Preview and Submit
Here you simply get to look at a preview of all the information you have put in so far, counter-check it for correctness and clarity, before submitting.
TIP: Always report as clearly and with as much relevant detail as possible. This helps in collecting information and investigations.
Think of any more relevant information you can add at this point before submitting. Then select yes or no in the required fields about sharing your report with other anti-fraud authorities.
Then click Submit at the bottom.
You will get an email from ScamWatch with the report of the details you filled in. That’s it! You’re done!
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