If you suspect that you've fallen victim to a scam, it’s essential to act quickly and thoughtfully to minimise any potential damage. It can be overwhelming, but don’t worry - we’ve got a simple step-by-step guide to help you through it.

Step 1: Stay calm

First things first, take a deep breath. I know it’s easier said than done, but staying calm can help you think clearly. Panic can lead to hasty decisions that might make things worse.

Step 2: Document everything

Next, it’s time to gather some evidence. Collect all the relevant information about the scam, including:

Emails, messages, or calls from the scammer.

Screenshots of any transactions or conversations you had.

Details of the scam, like the date, time, and how it all went down.

Having everything documented will be super helpful as you move forward.

Step 3: Contact your bank

Now, reach out to your bank - if you're with Coastline Bank or another financial institution, call them right away. Let them know you believe you’ve been scammed. We’ll be able to give you guidance on what to do next, which might include freezing or closing your accounts, changing your passwords, or monitoring for unusual transactions.

Step 4: Report the scam

It’s time to alert the authorities! Here’s who you should contact:

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC): Report the scam on the Scamwatch website. This helps track scams and warn others.

Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC): If the scam happened online, report it to the ACSC at cyber.gov.au

Step 5: File a police report

Head over to your local police station and file a report. Bring all the documentation you gathered; this could be important for insurance claims or investigations.

Step 6: Change your passwords

Next up, it’s time to secure your accounts. Change the passwords for all your online accounts, especially banking and email. Use strong, unique passwords, and consider enabling two-factor authentication for extra security.

Step 7: Monitor your accounts

Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements. Check for any unauthorised transactions and report anything suspicious to your bank immediately.

Step 8: Protect your identity

If you shared personal information, like your driver’s license or Medicare number, think about enrolling in an identity theft protection service. They can help monitor your information and alert you to any suspicious activity.

Step 9: Inform credit bureaus

If you feel like your personal information has been compromised, contact major credit reporting agencies in Australia - like Equifax, Experian, and Mosaic - and ask to place a fraud alert on your credit report.

Step 10: Stay informed and educate others

Lastly, take a moment to learn from this experience. Research the type of scam you encountered to understand how it operates. This knowledge can help you and others avoid similar scams in the future.

Don’t hesitate to share your story with friends and family; raising awareness is one of the best ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

And remember, if you ever feel unsure about an interaction or transaction regarding your finances, reach out to us for guidance. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!