Recover from an online scam

Act quickly to stop the scammers and limit the damage.

What you should do

You should do all of the following:

  • stop all contact and don’t send any more money
  • contact your bank and ask them to stop any transactions
  • warn your family and friends
  • report it through ReportCyber on the Australian Cyber Security Centre website
  • report it on the Scamwatch website.

Contact IDCARE if you need help step by step. You can get help on the IDCARE website. Or, find out more about what to do if you’ve been scammed on the Moneysmart website.

If the scam involved myGov or one of your linked services, get advice about myGov scams.

There is advice if you’ve been scammed overseas on the Smartraveller website.

Financial help

You may not always be able to recover money lost to cybercrime. Be wary of offers to help recover money, which may turn out to be a scam. You can learn about money recovery scams on the Scamwatch website.

There is help available if you’re in financial hardship.

Your mental health

Experiencing crime or harm online can be distressing. It’s helpful to find ways to take care of yourself.

There's free support and information available. Find out more about getting mental health support.

Page last updated: 26 March 2024