Leah Discovers Scam After ‘Bank’ Call
Western Australians are facing a growing threat from scams as new data reveals alarming trends in fraudulent activities. In 2025, 773 individuals reported being scammed, collectively losing over $24 million. One notable victim, Leah Lewis from Jindalee, fell prey to a sophisticated scam that cost her $4,540.
Leah’s Fraud Experience
Leah Lewis, a mother of six, experienced a harrowing scam which began with a notification from her bank about a suspicious transaction. After confirming with her husband that they had not made this purchase, she contacted her bank, Commbank.
Days later, Leah received another call from someone claiming to be from Commbank’s fraud department. During this 22-minute phone call, the imposter convinced her that her account was at risk and asked her to provide her new card details to protect her money.
Tragic Outcome
- Amount lost: $4,540
- Duration of the call: 22 minutes
- Type of scam: Impersonation of bank representatives
Despite initial assurances from the scammers, Leah later learned her money was sent to Taptap Send, an international money transfer service. This deception left her feeling guilty and frustrated, especially as a mother trying to safeguard her family’s finances.
Statewide Scam Statistics
The WA ScamNet Year in Review report highlighted several key statistics:
- Phishing scams, where impostors impersonate trusted brands, accounted for 27% of reported cases.
- Total losses from phishing and hacking: $2.1 million.
- Dating and romance scams caused victims to lose $3.8 million.
- Investment scams led to the highest revenue loss of $13.7 million.
- AI-related scams have cost victims $257,819 in 2025 alone.
Expert Advice
Consumer Protection Commissioner Patricia Blake emphasizes that anyone can fall victim to these scams. She urges the public not to be ashamed if they have been deceived. Blake advises immediate action if scammed:
- Contact your bank as quickly as possible to maximize chances of recovery.
- Beware of investment opportunities endorsed by celebrities.
- Avoid sending money to individuals you haven’t met in person.
As scammers continue to exploit advances in technology, remaining vigilant is crucial. Western Australians must stay informed and cautious to protect their hard-earned money from fraud.
