How to Tell If a Text or Call Is a Scam (2026)

How to tell if a text, email or call is a scam

By Pasan, founder and lead technician at Sysworth IT · Updated 2 November 2026

Quick answer

A message is probably a scam if it creates urgency, asks you to click a link, pay, share a code, buy gift cards or let someone onto your computer, or comes from a 'family member' on a new number. Don't click or call back. In Adelaide, text a screenshot to Sysworth IT's free Scam Check on 0421 530 032.

Why this matters

According to the ACCC, people aged 65 and over are about 17% of the population but carry over a quarter of reported scam losses, and remote-access scams are among the costliest types. Scams are now polished, personalised and often use AI.

Seven warning signs

Urgency. "Your account will be suspended today." Real organisations give you time.
A link you didn't ask for. Look at the real address. Toll, parcel and tax "notices" are the most common.
A request for a code. Nobody genuine needs the 6-digit code sent to your phone.
Unusual payment. Gift cards, crypto, or "move your money to a safe account".
"Hi Mum, I lost my phone." A new number claiming to be family. Call the old number.
A call about your computer. Microsoft, Telstra and NBN Co never call to fix your computer.
Remote access. Anyone asking you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer or similar when you didn't call them.

If a scammer got onto your computer

Turn the computer off or unplug the internet. Call your bank using the number on your card. Don't let anyone reconnect. Then have the remote-access tools removed and your email and key accounts secured; our Scam & Virus Clean-up is $179.

Our promise

Sysworth IT never calls you first and never asks for remote access unless you contacted us. If someone claiming to be us does, hang up.

What should I do if I clicked a scam link?

Do not enter any details. If you did, change that password from a different device, call your bank using the number on your card, and run a security scan. If you entered banking details or a scammer accessed your computer, book a scam clean-up.

Can scammers fake a caller ID or a family member’s voice?

Yes. Caller ID can be spoofed and AI can clone voices from short clips. Agree on a family code word, and hang up and call back on a number you already know.

Where do I report a scam in Australia?

Report it to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au. Call your bank straight away if money or card details are involved, and contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160 for identity theft.