When Are Australians Most Likely to Be Scammed?
Did you know Tuesday afternoons at 4pm are the peak time for scammers to strike in Australia? According to new data from Westpac, this is when most Australians are busy juggling work, school pick-ups, or gym runs, leaving them vulnerable to scams.
Why Scammers Strike on Tuesday Afternoons
Westpac’s Head of Fraud Prevention, Ben Young, explains that scammers take advantage of distracted individuals. “We’re seeing a clear pattern where scams happen later in the day, especially on Tuesday afternoons, when people are multitasking and not paying attention to potential warning signs,” Young said.
Scammers rely on moments when your guard is down—like in the late afternoon—to trick you into clicking on suspicious links, sharing personal details, or sending money.
Top Scams Affecting Australians at 4pm
The data also reveals the most common types of scams striking Australians:
- Remote access scams (29%) – Scammers convince you to give them control of your device under the guise of urgent technical support.
- Investment scams (20%) – Fake investment opportunities promising high returns.
- Buying and selling scams (13%) – Fraud related to online purchases or sales.
“These scams are often designed to confuse or pressure people when they’re not fully focused,” Young added.
How to Protect Yourself from Scams
Here are some practical scam prevention tips to keep you safe:
- Never share personal or financial information with people you don’t know.
- Avoid clicking on links or attachments in unsolicited emails or messages.
- Research sellers and read reviews before making purchases online.
- Always call a company to verify payment details before paying an invoice.
- Be cautious of offers that sound too good to be true.
- Never send money or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person.
- If in doubt, talk to a trusted family member or friend before taking action.
Stay Scam-Smart
Scammers rely on distraction, urgency, and confusion to succeed. By staying alert and informed, you can avoid falling victim to their tactics. Remember, if something feels off, take a moment to pause and think and always notify your bank as soon as possible if you suspect fraudulent activity.
For more tips on scam prevention and the latest updates on fraud protection, visit Westpac’s website today!
