14/05/2026
Scam losses are rising across Australia and small businesses are right in the firing line. A recent report from the National Anti-Scam Centre shows overall losses are increasing, and it’s not because small business owners are careless. It’s because scammers are getting more convincing, more persistent, and they know exactly where the pressure points are: payments, invoices, and bank details.
The most common play is simple: they pretend to be someone you already trust. A supplier “updates” their bank details. A “bank” calls to confirm a payment. A “government agency” emails about an urgent compliance issue. It usually comes through email or a phone call, and it’s designed to catch you when you’re busy, understaffed, and trying to keep cashflow moving.
If you run a small team (or you’re doing it all yourself), here’s the practical safeguard: slow the process down on purpose.
Build one non-negotiable step into your payment routine , verify any change to bank details using a known phone number (not the one in the email). That one habit can save you tens of thousands and a whole lot of stress.
Swipe through, learn how to protect yourself
Canberra Business Chamber Canberra Small Business Network Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman The Canberra Times ACT Government Canberra Small Business Hub Small Businesses Canberra Small Business Market Canberra Small Business Services HerZest
