Have you been scammed?

That’s one of the questions I’ve raised in Mallee’s Biggest Survey 2025 edition and you can go to my website www.annewebster.com.au to share your views on over 30 questions about issues that matter to you - including scams.

Survey responses received before the end of today, Friday 18 July are in the running to win a new 11-inch 128GB (A16) Apple iPad.

The reason I ask today about scams is the Australian Taxation Office has this week warned they have seen a 300 per cent – yes, a threefold – increase in scams this year.  It’s really important to be switched on at this time as you lodge your tax return, as Australians have been duped out of their hard-earned money through ATO impersonation scams.

Scammers impersonate the ATO trying to harvest your personal information, to use it via identity theft or fraud to steal your money, or someone else’s.

As I said in Parliament late last year, scammers are the scum of the earth and prey on the vulnerable.  Australians are not stupid, and the scammers are getting sophisticated, using AI to impersonate government agencies or businesses. There are many ways you can avoid being scammed and I urge you to visit scamwatch.gov.au for advice.

In Mallee’s Biggest Survey I have been shocked by the number of people so far saying they have been scammed over $1,000. Some have used the comments section to outline further how much they have been scammed and the stories are harrowing.

I have been working with the banks and now in my role as Shadow Minister for Regional Communications, with the telcos on their responsibility in preventing scams. Sure, you and I the customer have a responsibility to avoid being scammed – and I have been.  Banks, telcos, government all need to play their part as well preventing this social menace.

If you have been scammed and are getting no meaningful help from the ATO, your bank or elsewhere, please do not hesitate to email me at anne.webster.mp@aph.gov.au.  I am determined to pursue reform in this area so please reach out.