Australia is relentlessly being targeted by scammers constantly looking for newer ways to take advantage of unsuspecting victims. Unfortunately, in most cases, scams are only spotted once the worst has happened. By then, it’s too late.
In 2023, text messaging has overtaken phone calls and emails as the top scam delivery method. Scammers often pose as legitimate organisations, banks, government agencies, or even friends or family members through sophisticated text messages.
Gone in seconds: Unmasking the surge in scam activity in Australia
In our inaugural report, BDO's Forensic Services team zeroes in on the landscape of scam activity during the fourth quarter of FY23.
In this report, we explore trends and data from this quarter on:
- The top scam delivery methods
- A spike in investment scams
- Demystifying the dark web.
Navigating the dark web landscape in Australia
A complex and ever-evolving hidden part of the internet, the dark web can attract users looking to anonymously engage in legal and illegal activities such as drugs, counterfeit currency, stolen data, hacking tools, and more. According to the report, traffic and trading on the dark web continue to rise, with approximately 2.7 million daily users in 2023 - up from 2.5 million in 2022.
Our forensic experts share insights on the trends and risks related to the dark web over this quarter, enabling you and your organisation to make informed decisions and protect what matters most.