- Queenslanders scammed out of $93 million in 2023
- Queenslanders over the age of 65 are reporting the largest losses to scams compared to any other age group
- In 2023, over 65s in Queensland reported losing nearly $35 million
Queenslanders are being scammed more each year, losing $93,331,359 in 2023 according to Scamwatch statistics.
Worryingly, Queenslanders over the age of 65 are experiencing bigger losses to scammers than any other age group, reporting $34,891,745 million in losses last year.
To put that into perspective, that is more than the entire Queensland population reported losing to scams just three years earlier. (2020 – $32,184,253)
One Queensland woman reported losing $110,000 to a cryptocurrency scam, after seeing an ad pop up on social media about gold mining shares for $250.
Among the top scams Australians of all ages have reported to Scamwatch in 2023 were:
- Investment scams: $292,623,743
- Dating and romance scams: $34,344,656
- False billing scams: $27,991,378
The top three scams most reported by Australians to Scamwatch in 2023:
- Phishing scams: 108,636 reports
- False billing scams: 39,588 reports
- Online shopping scams: 21,346 reports
With the rising cost of living adding pressure to household budgets, it’s never been more important to be scam aware. That’s why the Miles Government is reminding older Queenslanders in particular, to stay vigilant and learn how to spot a scam.
Tips on how to be scam aware:
- If you are looking to invest money, do your research and check the company or scheme is licensed on the Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s website.
- If you receive phone calls or emails offering financial advice or investment opportunities, hang up or delete the email.
- Be wary of phone calls or text messages from numbers you do not know, and never give out your personal details.
- Be cautious of messages or emails asking you to click on a link or open an attachment.
