Protecting against Scams & Identity Theft
PROTECTING YOUR FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE
You've Worked Hard for Your Money. Let's Keep it Safe.
You deserve to feel secure and independent. This guide gives you simple, smart steps to protect your good name and your money from scammers. You don't need to be a computer expert—small, regular habits are the best way to stay in control.
Part 1: Check the Health of Your Name Every 3 Months
Think of your credit report as a "health check for your name." It shows if anyone has been using your details to borrow money or open accounts without you knowing. Checking it regularly is the best way to catch problems early. It's free, it's smart, and it's your right.
How to Get Your Free Credit Report
In Australia, there are three main credit reporting companies. You can get one free report from each of them every year. A good plan is to ask for a report from a different company every few months.
January: Check with Equifax.
July: Check with Experian.
To get your report, you can look them up online or call their phone lines and ask for a paper copy to be sent in the mail. You should never have to pay for these reports.
What to Look For (The Red Flags)
When you get your report, take your time and look for anything that seems strange:
Addresses where you have never lived.
Credit cards or loans that you did not open.
Names of people you don't know.
If You Find a Problem
First, stay calm. You have caught it early, which is a good thing.
Call the credit company (Equifax, Experian, or illion) and tell them about the mistake or fraud.
Call IDCARE at 1800 595 160. They are a free Australian service that helps people fix identity theft problems.
Write everything down. Keep notes of who you called and when you called them.
Part 2: Simple Steps for Safe Banking Every Day
Small habits make a big difference in keeping your bank accounts safe.
Phone and Email Safety
Your bank will NEVER call or email you to ask for your password, PIN, or full account numbers.
If someone calls pretending to be from your bank, hang up. Call your bank back using the phone number on the back of your bank card. Do not use the number the person on the phone gives you.
Watch Out for These Tricks (The Red Flags)
Be suspicious if someone:
Tells you your account is locked or has been hacked.
Asks you to "move your money to a safe account" for security. Real banks will never do this.
Pressures you to act very quickly. Scammers try to rush you so you don't have time to think.
If You Think It's a Scam
STOP. Do not give any information or click on any links.
CALL your bank directly using the number on your bank card.
REPORT it to Scamwatch at 1300 795 995 to help protect others.
Your Most Important Safety Tools
Your Important Contacts Card:
Keep a card near your phone with these important numbers.
Your Bank's Fraud Department: (Find this on their website or your statement)
IDCARE: 1800 595 160 (For identity theft help)
Scamwatch: 1300 795 995 (To report scams)
1800 ELDERHelp: 1800 353 374 (For support and advice)
Your Trusted Supporter
It is a sign of strength, not weakness, to have a trusted supporter help you. You can ask a trusted family member or friend to sit with you while you check your credit reports or to help you call the bank.
You stay in charge—they are just there to help you look and make sure everything is okay.
Remember, your security is worth the effort. Start with one small step today.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. The information is provided "as is," without any guarantee of its accuracy or completeness.
Any action you take based on the contents of this guide is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage resulting from its use. Please consult a qualified professional to address your individual circumstances.