Australia is grappling with an unprecedented wave of online scams, with reported losses surpassing $3 billion in 2025, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The scams, which range from fake marketplace listings on Depop to sophisticated email phishing and romance fraud, are exploiting a fundamental human vulnerability: trust.
Scams Across Platforms: From Depop to Email
The ACCC's Scamwatch service reported that marketplace scams, particularly on platforms like Depop, have surged by 40% year-on-year. Fraudsters create convincing listings for high-demand items, collect payment, and then vanish without delivering the goods. Email phishing scams also remain rampant, with scammers impersonating banks and government agencies to steal personal and financial information.
According to the ACCC, email scams accounted for 25% of all reported incidents in 2025, making them the most common vector. These emails often contain links to fake login pages, capturing credentials and enabling identity theft.
Financial and Romance Scams: The Human Cost
Investment scams, often promoted via social media and dating apps, have become the most financially damaging, with losses averaging $50,000 per victim. Romance scams, where fraudsters build emotional connections to extract money, have also increased by 25%, with victims losing an average of $30,000.
The ACCC's deputy chair, Catriona Lowe, said, "Scammers are increasingly sophisticated, using emotional manipulation and fake urgency to bypass our defenses. No one is immune, and the financial and emotional toll on victims is devastating."
Government and Industry Response
In response, the Australian government has introduced a new Scams Code Framework, requiring banks, telecommunications companies, and digital platforms to implement mandatory scam detection and prevention measures. The framework, effective from 2026, mandates real-time payment warnings and enhanced identity verification for high-risk transactions.
Tech companies like Depop have also pledged to improve seller verification and buyer protection. However, consumer advocates argue that more needs to be done, calling for a dedicated scam reporting portal and increased funding for victim support services.
Building a Culture of Skepticism
Experts emphasize that prevention is key. They advise consumers to verify the authenticity of online sellers, avoid clicking on unsolicited links, and never share personal information over the phone or email. The ACCC recommends using the 'Stop, Think, Protect' approach: stop before acting, think about whether the request is legitimate, and protect your information.
As scams become more sophisticated, the challenge is to balance convenience with security. The ACCC continues to monitor trends and adapt its advice, but ultimately, public awareness and vigilance remain the first line of defense.
