How scammers scam even the most tech savvy
And, a little extra piece today, on how to avoid hacks and scams (without becoming a total tech hermit).
My article in the weekend’s newspapers about a hoax article pretending that superannuation rules would change on 1 June was incredibly well-read and discussed. And it made me want to go deeper into the issue of hacks and scams.
So this week on Prime Time, I sat down with one of the world’s most experienced scam investigators, Ken Gamble. Ken has been tracking down fraudsters and exposing global scam syndicates since the 1980s - and his insights are jaw-dropping.
We went deep on how scammers operate, why midlife and older Australians are prime targets, and what you can do to protect yourself. From fake bond offers to crypto cons, and even cloned Facebook groups (yep, including fake ones pretending to be me), this episode is a must-listen if you, or anyone you care about, uses the internet (which let’s face it — is all of us!)
Ken doesn’t just talk theory - he’s lived it. He’s tracked criminals across continents, infiltrated call centres, and helped put scammers behind bars. This one’s packed with red flags, insider tips, and some genuinely shocking stories.
LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:
Highlights of the conversation:
Ken’s origin story: From Army Reserve and boxing to insurance fraud surveillance—and eventually global scam busting.
The rise of scam syndicates: How he uncovered a Rugby World Cup ticket scam and followed the trail to international organised crime.
Investment fraud 101: Why term deposit ads and fake bond offers are the most common way Aussies are conned.
Pig butchering scams (yes, that’s what they’re really called): How scammers lure people in through WhatsApp and fake romance.
Why fake profiles work so well: How scammers build rapport with vulnerable people—using cloned AFSL numbers, phony news stories, and AI-powered websites.
The psychology behind scams: Why even smart, cautious people get caught out—and how scammers exploit our trust.
Facebook’s failure to act: My own experience battling fake groups, and Ken’s take on the limits of big tech’s scam prevention.
The terrifying sophistication of scam tech: How deepfakes, voice cloning, and AI are being used to scale deception.
Prevention tips that could save your life savings: Ken’s blunt advice—never invest online, get a second opinion, and always walk away if pressure is applied.
💬 “If someone is rushing you to invest or saying you’ll miss out if you don’t act now—that’s your red flag. Walk away.” — Ken Gamble
If this episode made you stop and think, share it with someone you love—because awareness is the best defence we’ve got.
And if you've got a question for an upcoming episode, email me at bec@primetimers.net. Make sure you're subscribed on the podcast platform so you get notified every week when our shows drop too.
Let’s stay sharp and make your Prime Time count.
Tell us your scam awareness stories in the comments today — let’s help everyone understand the signs of scams and hacks better.
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How to avoid hacks and scams (without becoming a total tech hermit)
Scams are getting smarter, and sneakier. But a few simple habits can help you stay one step ahead. Here’s how to protect yourself without panicking every time your phone pings.
1. Don’t click random links—even if they look official
Scammers are brilliant at making emails, texts and ads look like they’re from your bank, Telstra, or even the ATO. Hover over links first or go directly to the website instead of clicking.
2. Never invest online after a cold call or pop-up ad
If someone reaches out to you (not the other way around), assume it’s a scam. Slick websites, professional phone manners, and even cloned AFSL numbers are all part of the con.
3. Got a deal that’s too good to be true? It is.
Cheap designer bags, high-yield bonds, or a "just listed" puppy—scam alert. If it’s wildly underpriced or over-promised, hit delete.
4. Lock down your social media
Keep your profiles private. Scammers scrape personal info to build trust and clone your identity (or mine... I’ve had fake “Bec Wilson” profiles try to scam people! So now ALL my public profiles have a blue tick — I promise!).
5. Google the business—but dig deeper
Don’t trust the first few results or reviews. Scammers write their own fake news articles and testimonials to seem legit.
6. Get a second opinion before you move money
A trusted friend, your adult kids, your financial adviser—someone savvy. Don’t suffer in silence or be embarrassed to ask. I’ve heard horror stories of people being scammed out of their savings.
7. Don’t pay by bank transfer for online buys
If someone won’t let you use a secure payment method (PayPal, credit card), RUN. Marketplace scams love instant deposits.
8. Know your weak spot
Are you a helper? Lonely? Looking for a better return on your savings? Scammers target your emotions, not just your wallet. I’ve seen this particularly avidly in Facebook where people post emotive posts, others reply with sympathy then scammers try to form contact/friendship with you — it’s the most common ploy in the book sadly.
9. Use two-factor authentication everywhere
Yes, it’s annoying. But it could save you from losing your entire email, super fund, or bank account to a hacker. [Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring both your password and a second form of verification—like a code sent to your phone—when logging in. It helps protect your accounts even if your password is stolen.]
10. Trust your gut—then verify
If something feels “off”, it probably is. Take five, step away, and double-check before doing anything.
An email that looked like it came from Centrelink (but I didn’t check sender like I normally would) with a link titled More details that led to a website that was an exact copy of the MyGov home page that I then entered my username and password.
The scammers then have your MyGov details, login to Centrelink and change your bank details, then immediately draw an advance payment. They time it a day before your regular payment due so they get that payment also and then get out as you will soon realise something is wrong.
Centrelink are currently looking at how to stop this happening and meanwhile helping people to recover their money.