Losses from scams increased to $175 million in the first six months of the year despite a 24% drop in the number of reports to a national help service. 

The National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch program received 108,305 reports in the half-year, with a 40.5% increase in frauds that caused a loss.  

Overall losses were up 26% on the corresponding period last year, with the average reported loss at $12,212 – a 10% decrease.

The centre says 14,235 reports involved crypto frauds, while about $19.5 million was lost to phishing scams, in which cybercriminals trick someone into giving up personal information.  

The centre is taking part in Scams Awareness Week, urging people to “Stop. Check. Protect” before buying products online.  

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission deputy chair Catriona Lowe says it is vital people are educated on fraud.  

“Scams don’t discriminate and can affect anyone, which is why open conversations with loved ones and greater awareness are so important,” she said.

“Government, business and individuals all have a role to play in building a scam-aware community and reaching every group, including those who may face extra barriers to understanding or reporting scams.”

Scamwatch says there have been more than 6300 reports of financial losses from shopping-related scams this year, with some customers lured by websites offering fake deals.  

“Scammers are increasingly targeting people on websites and social media, knowing we’re all spending more time and money online,” Ms Lowe said.

“Taking just a few moments to verify a seller or offer can be the difference between a good deal and a devastating financial loss.”