Scams Targeting Older Australians: How to Spot Them and Stay Safe

Australians aged 65 and over lost nearly $100 million to scammers last year. Older Australians remain the most targeted group. The good news is that almost every scam follows a pattern, and once you know what to look for, you can spot them quickly. This guide explains the most common scams in 2026 and how to protect yourself.

Why are seniors targeted?

Scammers target older Australians because:

• Many have built up savings or own a home outright
• Some are less familiar with new technology
• Many are polite and find it hard to hang up
• Loneliness can make people more open to talking to strangers

Being a target has nothing to do with intelligence. Sophisticated scams fool people of all ages.

The 5 most common scams in 2026

1. The myGov text scam

You receive a text saying your myGov account has a problem and you need to click a link. The link goes to a fake website that steals your password.

Truth: myGov never sends links by text. Always type my.gov.au into your browser yourself.

2. The fake police or tax office call

Someone calls claiming to be from the police, ATO, or Services Australia. They say you owe money or are about to be arrested. They demand payment by gift cards or transfer.

Truth: No real government agency asks for payment by gift card. The ATO never threatens arrest by phone. Hang up.

3. The aged care assessor visit

Strangers knock on the door claiming to be from My Aged Care. They ask for personal details, bank account information, or payment for a "fast-track" assessment.

Truth: Real aged care assessors always book in advance, carry official ID, and never ask for money. If unsure, call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.

4. Investment scams

A friendly caller offers a "guaranteed return" investment in shares, crypto, or property. They pressure you to act quickly.

Truth: No legitimate investment is "guaranteed". Always check Moneysmart.gov.au before investing money. Real advisers never pressure you.

5. The romance scam

Someone you meet online says they love you. Soon they ask for money, often for a "medical emergency" or "stuck overseas".

Truth: Anyone who asks you for money online is almost always a scammer. Never send money to someone you haven't met in person.

The 5 warning signs of a scam

If you see any of these, it's almost certainly a scam:

1. Urgency. "Act now" or "before midnight" pressure
2. Unusual payment method. Gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers
3. Out of the blue. Contact you didn't ask for
4. Sounds too good to be true. Big prize, big return, big love story
5. Asks for personal details. Passwords, PINs, or full bank account numbers

5 simple rules to stay safe

1. Hang up. You don't have to be polite to strangers who call you.
2. Never click links in unexpected texts or emails.
3. Talk to family before sending any large amount of money.
4. Verify directly. If in doubt, call the organisation using a number from their official website.
5. Trust your gut. If something feels wrong, it usually is.

What to do if you've been scammed

You're not alone. Acting fast can sometimes recover your money or stop more loss.

1. Contact your bank immediately. They may be able to stop or reverse the transfer.
2. Report to Scamwatch: scamwatch.gov.au or call 1800 595 160.
3. Report to ID Care: 1800 595 160 if your personal details were taken.
4. Change passwords on all important accounts.
5. Tell family and friends. They may also be targeted.

Beware of "recovery" scams

After a scam, you may be contacted by someone offering to recover your lost money — for an upfront fee. This is another scam. Real recovery services do not charge in advance.

Final thought

Scammers are skilled at creating fear, urgency, and trust. The best defence is to slow down. When something feels strange, hang up, take a breath, and check with someone you trust. There's no shame in asking, only in staying silent.

If you're not sure about a call, message, or visitor, you're welcome to ring Scamwatch on 1800 595 160. Help is always free.