Online safety, scams and privacy
What to do if you think you have responded to a scam
Calm first steps for protecting money, accounts and personal information after a suspected scam.
What you will learn
You'll know which steps are urgent and where to find official help.
Before you continue
Recovery scammers may contact people who have already lost money. Do not pay someone who promises guaranteed recovery.
Contact your bank immediately if money or banking access may be at risk. Seek emergency assistance if anyone is in immediate danger.
Stop further contact
Do not send more money or information. Do not keep using links, phone numbers or software provided by the person who contacted you.
Protect money first
If money or banking details may be involved, contact your bank immediately using a trusted number or the bank's official app. Explain what happened and follow its instructions.
Secure affected accounts
Use a device you trust to change affected passwords. Start with email and financial accounts. Review recent activity and enable two-factor authentication where it is available.
Record what happened
Keep relevant messages, receipts, dates and account details. Do not keep communicating just to collect more evidence.
Ask for specialist help
Report the incident through Scamwatch. If identity information may have been exposed, consider contacting IDCARE through its official website.
What to expect
You've stopped contact, protected the most urgent accounts or payments and recorded what happened.
Sources and further reading
- Where to get help · Scamwatch
Urgent recovery steps and official support options after a scam.