Social media is being exploited to scam Australian children, with scammers pocketing over AUD129,700 from kids and teens in 2024 so far, according to the latest data from the Australian Government’s Scamwatch programme.
Analysis by AUCyber, one of Australia’s leading cyber security experts, reveals that social media is the primary platform used by criminals to target young Australians with 198 reports made this year.
AUCyber’s CEO Peter Maloney expressed concern about the growing threat posed by scammers, particularly through social media.
“The data clearly indicates that cybercriminals are increasingly focusing their efforts on targeting Australian children through the use of social media platforms,” Maloney said.
This trend coincides with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s announcement of plans to introduce legislation aimed at restricting access to social media for children and younger teenagers before the end of the year, with a proposed age limit of 16 years.
Maloney explained that criminals use highly targeted and personalised campaigns based on children’s interests.
“Common scams include fake online advertisements on search engine platforms and social media, directing them to fraudulent stores offering discounted or free credits, tokens, or skins for popular gaming platforms,” he said.
AUCyber emphasised the urgent need for education in combating these scams, noting that social media serves as the main vehicle for scams against children, with victims under 18 losing an average of around $250 per incident.
“Education and awareness are our first lines of defence against scammers. We must equip our children and young Australians with the knowledge and tools to recognise and report suspicious activities,” Maloney said. “By engaging in open discussions about the tactics used by scammers, we can empower young people to make informed and safer online choices. This proactive approach not only protects them but also fosters a culture of vigilance and responsibility in the digital landscape.”
The data reveals the top scams affecting young Australians include:
- Online classified scams: Platforms like Facebook and Gumtree are exploited, with scammers setting up profiles to lure victims, leading to average losses per incident of around $600 in 2024.
- Online shopping scams: Scammers create fake online stores or mimic legitimate websites, resulting in an average loss of over $200 for items that never arrive this year.
“The latest government data shows that scammers are targeting children, primarily through social media,” Maloney noted. “Research indicates that 91% of teenagers aged 14 to 18 own a mobile device. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have become hotspots for scammers posing as friends or influencers to manipulate young users.”
While text messages and emails remain avenues for phishing scams (misleading children into sharing personal information or clicking on harmful links) social media has become the predominant vehicle for these deceitful tactics.
“As scammers continue to exploit these platforms, it’s crucial for parents and guardians to educate their children about the risks and promote safe online practices,” added Maloney.
