The Alarming Rise of Scams — And How They’re Hurting Our Most Vulnerable

In recent years, scams have surged to unprecedented levels, both in number and sophistication. From phone calls impersonating government agencies, to text messages posing as delivery services, to online romance and investment traps — the tactics are evolving faster than many people can keep up with. While scams are a problem for everyone, it’s the most vulnerable members of our community who are feeling the harshest impact.

Why Scams Are Growing

There are a few key reasons behind this rise:

• Low cost for scammers: With email, social media, and cheap overseas calling, scammers can target thousands of people at almost no expense.

• Technology tools: Artificial intelligence, deepfake voices, and phishing kits make scams more convincing.

• Global networks: Many scams operate across borders, making them harder to trace or prosecute.

• Economic pressure: Financial hardship leaves people more open to offers that promise savings or quick profits.

Who Is Being Targeted

While anyone can fall victim, certain groups are more at risk:

• Older Australians: They may be less familiar with digital scams and more trusting of official-sounding calls.

• People with disabilities or language barriers: Communication challenges can make it harder to spot warning signs.

• Those experiencing financial hardship: Offers of quick loans, investment schemes, or bill discounts can be especially tempting.

• The socially isolated: Romance scams and friendship frauds prey on loneliness.

The Human Cost

Scams aren’t just about losing money — they can cause deep emotional harm:

• Financial devastation: Some victims lose life savings, leaving them unable to recover financially.

• Shame and embarrassment: Many feel too humiliated to report the scam, which allows criminals to keep operating.

• Loss of trust: Being scammed often damages a person’s faith in genuine organisations, charities, or even family members.

• Mental health impacts: Anxiety, depression, and feelings of helplessness are common after being targeted.

How We Can Protect Our Community

1. Education: Clear, accessible information — in multiple languages and formats — helps people recognise scams before they happen.

2. Reporting: Encourage victims to report scams to the ACCC’s Scamwatch and local police, even if no money was lost.

3. Community support: Friends, family, and neighbours can help by checking in and offering a safe space to discuss suspicious messages or calls.

4. Digital literacy programs: Teaching safe online habits should be as important as teaching road safety.

The Bottom Line

Scams are a growing threat that require a united community response. While governments and tech companies have a role to play in prevention, it’s also about looking out for each other — particularly those who may not see the red flags. The more we share knowledge, the fewer opportunities scammers have to exploit.