Avoiding and reporting a suspected scam

If you think you have fallen victim to a scam, please take action:

• If you have shared bank account information with a suspected scammer, please contact your bank immediately.
• If you have shared personal identity information (such as passport number or Medicare card number) with a suspected scammer, go to idcare.org or telephone 1800 595 160 for free assistance and support.

You can report a DVA related scam here. 

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What is a scam?

A scam is a way of tricking someone in order to steal their money and/or personal details.

Scams have the ability to target people from all backgrounds, ages and income levels. Anyone can be a victim to a scam.

There are always new types of scams appearing because scammers often take advantage of new technology, new products, new services, public events and significant world events.

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What does a scam look like?

A scam can be an email, SMS message, phone call, letter or person face to face.

Scams succeed because they look like the 'real thing' and catch you off guard when you're not expecting it.

Some scammers create believable stories in an attempt to trigger an emotional response that convinces you to give them your money and/or gain access to your personal information.  

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How to identify a scam

It can be difficult to spot a scam. However, there are some signs you can look out for:

• an unexpected email, SMS or phone call claiming to be from DVA or offering a service on behalf of DVA
• a tight deadline to take action
• a promise of financial benefit
• a threat of fines, debts or jail

Always stop, think and check before you act. Scammers rely on you not spotting these warning signs because you’re in a hurry, something looks like a great deal you don’t want to miss, or because it seems like it’s from someone you trust.

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What to do if you think you have fallen victim to a scam

If you think you have fallen victim to a scam, please take action. 

• If you have shared bank account information with a suspected scammer, please contact your bank immediately.
• If you have shared personal identity information (such as passport number, driver's license details or Medicare card number) with a suspected scammer, go to IDCARE support services, or telephone 1800 595 160 for free assistance and support.
• If you are concerned about a specific data breach, refer to the advice on what to do at IDCARE - data breach support
• You can report a DVA related scam here.
• If you think your email account or social media account has been compromised, you should immediately change your password. Most reputable websites provide step-by-step instructions on how you can recover a hacked account.
• If you think your computer or device has been hacked or compromised, run a virus check.with your security software.

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Reporting a suspected DVA scam

To report a DVA related scam, complete the Report a DVA suspected scam form.

Reporting a suspected scam will allow us to investigate. This will prevent or disrupt the scam activity and may assist in preventing others from falling victim to the scam. 

To report a scam that refers to another Government organisation or business please contact the relevant organisation the scam relates to. You can also report the scam to Scamwatch.

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Tips to help you protect yourself

• If you receive a phone call, SMS or letter asking for personal details (such as your DVA client number or bank account details), do not provide them.
• Never provide information such as passwords, tax file numbers or bank account details via email links.
• If you receive an unexpected phone call from DVA, ask for their name and contact details. Then call us on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) to check.
• Do not call anyone back using a phone number provided to you as it may be fake.
• Do not open suspicious text messages. Delete these unread.
• Do not click on links or attachments in emails received from unknown or unexpected sources. Delete these unread.
• Do not allow anyone remote access to your computer.
• Be cautious if you are contacted out of the blue by someone claiming to be from ANY government department requesting personal information.
• Review your privacy settings on social media and be careful of how much personal information you share.
• Keep your personal details secure. Lock your mailbox, shred your bills before disposing of them and never have written copies of your passwords and/or pin numbers.
• myGov and MyService users, please be vigilant in protecting the security and privacy of your data – change your passwords regularly, use strong passwords and use two-factor authentication or sign up to myGovID (https://my.gov.au/en/about/help/digital-identity).
• If in doubt, type in my.gov.au into your browser and sign into your myGov account or contact Services Australia directly. Do not rely on the contact information in the email of SMS if you think it’s a scam.

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Further information

• Visit SCAMWATCH to learn more about scams. You can also subscribe to their free alert service to receive updates about the latest scams
• Visit ID Care for information on scam prevention and education
• Learn how to protect yourself online at Learn | Cyber.gov.au
• For information and guidance on a data breach visit IDCARE - data breach support
• Visit My Service on the DVA website.

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Support to assist you

If you or someone else is in crisis and needs immediate help, please call triple zero (000) straight away.

Free and confidential counselling and support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:

• Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling on 1800 011 046 (for current and ex-serving ADF members and their families)
• Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 (for all Australians experiencing emotional distress)

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