Scams Targeting Seniors Surge in 2025

As we move through 2025, Australian seniors are facing a growing wave of scams designed to exploit their trust, retirement savings, and vulnerability. New fraud schemes have emerged, more sophisticated and harder to detect than ever before, putting millions of older Australians at risk.

A Growing Problem

According to the latest reports from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch, scams targeting seniors have surged by over 30% compared to the previous year.¹ The financial losses are staggering, with victims often losing tens of thousands of dollars. These scams range from fake government calls and health product pitches to complex online identity theft schemes.

“Seniors are often targeted because scammers perceive them as trusting and sometimes less tech-savvy,” an expert from Scamwatch explained.

Common Scam Tactics in 2025

• Fake ATO Calls: Scammers impersonate Australian Taxation Office officials threatening legal action to extract payments.
• Investment and Superannuation Scams: Fraudsters promise high returns or early access to super funds, often convincing victims to transfer money to bogus accounts.
• Health and Wellness Frauds: Offers for miracle cures or expensive supplements exploiting health fears.
• Romance Scams: Scammers build fake relationships online before requesting money.
• Tech Support Scams: Calls claiming to fix computer issues, but instead gain remote access and steal personal information.

How Seniors Can Protect Themselves

Awareness and vigilance are key. Here are practical tips to stay safe:

• Never share personal details: Avoid giving out bank or Medicare info over the phone unless you initiated the call.
• Verify identities: Hang up and call official numbers directly if contacted unexpectedly.
• Consult trusted family or friends: When in doubt, seek a second opinion before transferring money or making purchases.
• Use strong, unique passwords: Protect online accounts and avoid using easily guessable information.
• Report suspicious activity: Use Scamwatch or local police channels to report scams.

Community and Government Responses

In response to the surge, several state governments have launched awareness campaigns targeting seniors, including workshops on digital literacy and scam identification. The Australian government is also investing in AI-driven call-blocking technologies to reduce scam calls.

A Support Network

Various community groups and aged care providers are increasing outreach programs. Organisations like the National Seniors Australia offer resources and helplines specifically designed to assist vulnerable older adults.

“Education is the strongest defense,” a community advocate said. “When seniors know what to look for, they can avoid becoming victims.”

The Human Toll

Beyond the financial impact, scams leave many seniors feeling embarrassed, isolated, and anxious. The psychological effects often go unreported but can be profound.

Consider Margaret, a 72-year-old retiree from Melbourne, who lost $15,000 to a fake investment scheme but found strength in community support groups to rebuild her confidence and finances.

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Looking Forward

The fight against scams is ongoing and evolving. Technological advancements like AI and machine learning offer hope for better detection, but widespread education and community vigilance remain vital. Protecting seniors means safeguarding a cherished part of Australia’s social fabric.

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¹ Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Scamwatch report, March 2025.

² Australian Institute of Criminology, Scam Losses by Age Demographics, 2024.