Ask twice, act once
Simply learning how to question and check before you respond can stop scammers in their tracks and keep your money and personal information safe.
Sponsored Story
Key points
Protect yourself from a scam
Learn how to check
Scams are everywhere, on the phone, in emails, in text messages, and even through the post.
They are becoming more sophisticated and more personal and no longer rely on obvious tricks or poorly written messages.
Today’s scammers are skilled at building trust and catching people off guard, especially when emotions are high or time feels tight. The good news is, there is one simple habit that can help make all the difference: Ask twice, Act Once.
Scams that don't look like scams
Two common scams that can catch Australians off guard are buying and selling scams and phishing scams.
- In buying and selling scams, fraudsters pose as fake buyers or sellers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree. They might ask for money upfront, send fake payment screenshots, or pressure you to use off-platform shipping and payment services.
- In phishing scams, scammers send realistic-looking texts or emails pretending to be from your bank, telco, or even MyGov. They try to get you to click a link, enter your details, or hand over access to your accounts. In both cases scammers often try to make you panic or rush into doing something. They might say:
“Your account will be locked unless you act now!”
“You’ve won a prize, but you must claim it immediately.”
“A loved one needs urgent help.”
If a message or call makes you feel worried, pressured, or excited, stop and take a moment to check. Scammers rely on quick reactions. They don’t want you to have time to think things through.
Here are four ways to check for yourself:
1. Check who is really contacting you
Scammers are experts at pretending to be someone they’re not. Their emails or texts may look official, and their phone calls may sound convincing. Remember:
Don’t trust the display name or caller ID. Scammers can make a fake name or number appear real.
Never use the contact details they give you. Instead, find the official phone number or website yourself (for example, the number on the back of your bank card or the government’s official site).
Be wary of links in emails or texts. These can lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.
2. Check the message for red flags
Many scams have tell-tale signs. Look out for:
Spelling mistakes or odd phrasing. Official organisations usually don’t send messages full of errors.
Requests for personal or financial information. Banks and government departments will never ask you for your login and one time password or PIN.
Unusual payment requests. If you’re asked to pay by gift cards, cryptocurrency, or a wire transfer, it’s almost certainly a scam.
Remember, if something feels “off” or too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Check with someone you trust
Scammers try to isolate us by saying, “Don’t tell anyone.” This is a big red flag. Talking to a family member, friend, or your bank can help you avoid acting on a scam – that second opinion can save you from falling into a trap.
4. Trust your instincts
Trust that you know when something doesn’t feel right. If you’re feeling uncertain, it’s better to stop and check than to risk losing money or personal information. A genuine organisation will never rush you or threaten you for asking questions.
The bottom line
The key to staying safe from scams is to stop, check, and only act once you’re sure it’s real. Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and secrecy. By slowing down, checking the details, and talking to someone you trust, you can outsmart them.
Remember: It’s always okay to hang up, delete, or ignore a suspicious message.
Photo by Liliana Drew
