What to Do If You Fall Victim to a Scam

If you think you’ve been scammed by an online casino, stay calm and act quickly. Follow these steps to limit the damage, recover lost funds, and report the scam.

Stop All Transactions Immediately

If you’ve used your card on the scam website, contact your bank right away to freeze your account and prevent more charges. If you’ve used an e-wallet or PayPal, report the fraud to them. Acting quickly can stop scammers from taking more money or reverse unauthorized transactions.

Change Your Passwords and Secure Your Accounts

If you’ve shared sensitive information, update your passwords right away. This applies to your casino account and related accounts like email or banking apps. Use a strong, unique password. If possible, enable Two-Factor Authentication for extra security.

Report the Scam

Report the scam to the proper authorities after securing your accounts. In Australia, you can report online scams to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) or the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). Reporting scams helps authorities watch suspicious sites and protect others.

If a casino claims to be licensed, report the issue to the licensing body. For example, the Northern Territory Racing Commission.

Seek Legal Advice

In some cases where a lot of money is involved, you may want to talk to a lawyer who knows about cybercrime or consumer rights. They can explain your options and tell you if it’s worth taking legal action. You can also contact organizations like the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). They handle problems with financial services and may be able to help you get your money back.

Try to Recover Your Money

You might get your money back if you used a credit card or some e-wallets. Ask your bank or payment provider to reverse the fraudulent transaction. Be ready to show proof, like emails or screenshots. The success depends on your bank’s rules and how soon you report it.

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Being scammed can be tough emotionally. It’s normal to feel embarrassed, angry, or anxious. But remember, you’re not alone. Many people get scammed each year. The shame belongs to the scammers, not you. If you’re struggling, talk to a mental health professional or contact support services like Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) to manage stress or anxiety.

If you’re scammed by an online casino, act quickly to reduce the damage. Freeze your accounts, report the scam, and seek advice to regain control. Recovering your funds may be tough, but taking action can protect you from future scams and help fight online fraud in Australia.