Children are getting in their last scrolls of social media ahead of a ban coming into effect. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)
Australians under the age of 16 can no longer create or maintain accounts on many social media platforms, a change aimed at enhancing online safety for young users. As families adjust to this new reality, the risk of scams exploiting this transition has grown, according to Scamwatch, which operates under the National Anti-Scam Centre. The agency has identified several fraudulent schemes that could target both young individuals and their guardians, creating a need for increased vigilance.
Common Scams Exploiting New Regulations
One prevalent scam involves fraudulent messages or emails that seem to originate from legitimate social media platforms or age verification services. These communications often threaten account suspension unless users provide sensitive personal information to “verify” their age. Scammers may also impersonate government officials or law enforcement, claiming that individuals have violated the new laws and must present identification or pay fines to avoid legal repercussions.
Another familiar tactic, known as the “Hi Mum” scam, may adapt to the new context. In this scenario, fraudsters pose as teenagers who are over 16, reaching out to parents for help with account verification. The objective remains the same: to steal personal information or money.
Young people are particularly vulnerable to offers that promise fake identification or access to verified accounts in exchange for payment. Such scams directly target those eager to maintain their online presence despite the new restrictions.
Staying Safe in a Changing Online Landscape
To protect themselves from these scams, individuals are advised to pause and assess any urgent or unusual requests. Legitimate platforms will not pressure users to act immediately or request payment related to the new regulations. If a suspicious message is received, it is crucial to verify the authenticity of the sender.
Familiarising oneself with the communication practices of social media platforms regarding age verification is beneficial. This information is typically available in the Help or Support sections of the platforms’ websites. Parents and guardians should engage in discussions with their children about the importance of not clicking on links or downloading attachments unless they are from verified sources.
If someone believes they have fallen victim to a scam, it is important to report the incident to WA ScamNet at scamnet.wa.gov.au or by calling 1300 30 40 54. Additionally, any financial losses should be reported to the respective bank immediately.
Open discussions about online safety and scams among family members can significantly reduce the effectiveness of scammers. For more information on the recent changes to social media access for minors, parents and guardians can visit the eSafety Commissioner’s Social Media Age Restrictions Hub.
According to Natasha Pirrottina, Senior Regional Officer for Consumer Protection in the Mid West, staying informed is key to navigating these changes effectively and safeguarding personal information.
