URGENT UPDATE: Swifties are on high alert as scammers are exploiting the excitement surrounding Taylor Swift’s new album announcement to steal money from fans. The pop icon revealed her upcoming album, Life of a Showgirl, set to drop on October 3, 2025, during an appearance on her boyfriend Travis Kelce’s podcast on Wednesday.
As fans rush to pre-order the album through Swift’s official website, the National Australia Bank (NAB) is warning of deceptive practices that could lead to significant financial losses. Tessa Bowles, head of NAB Security Culture and Advisory, disclosed that the bank halts and recovers nearly $2 million in scam payments each month.
“When excitement is high, criminals know fans will rush to make purchases,” said Bowles. “Stop, check, and protect before you hand over your payment details.”
Authorities caution that scammers are using fake pre-order sites mimicking Taylor’s official store, as well as links to purportedly leaked tracks that may contain malware. Furthermore, social media impersonators are promoting bogus giveaways, claiming to offer exclusive access to merchandise in return for personal information or fees.
Bowles emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant during this time. “Criminals thrive on urgency and fear,” she warned. “If you see phrases like ‘get in quick’ or ‘last chance offer,’ take a moment to verify the authenticity.”
Fans are advised to remain in their “safe-ty era” by sticking to the official website and recognized retailers. Bowles also suggests using PayID to minimize fraud risks, as it clearly displays the name of the recipient before payment is sent.
Additionally, consumers should be wary of sellers demanding payment via gift cards or cryptocurrencies, as these methods often lack buyer protection. With over 90,000 scams reported to ScamWatch in 2025 alone, Australians have already lost $147 million this year due to fraudulent activities.
As the album launch approaches, fans are urged to protect themselves from these scams. The stakes are high, and the excitement around Taylor Swift‘s new release makes it crucial to stay informed and cautious. Keep your eyes peeled for official announcements and enjoy the music—safely.
