Step 1: Secure your information

Update passwords and PINs

Consider updating login details for your important apps and accounts.

Including:

  • Banking platforms
  • Email accounts
  • Social media accounts
  • MyGov
  • Websites where your payment information is stored

Create stronger passwords

Read these tips on creating stronger and safer passwords.

Check your credit report

You can order a free credit report to check for any unauthorised:

  • Loan applications
  • Credit card openings
  • Credit enquiries

Note: Requesting your credit report does not affect your credit score. If you're asked to pay, it's likely a scam.

Step 2: Stay alert to follow-up scams

Scammers may try to re-target you with what's known as a follow-up scam.

These scams often involve impersonating trusted parties, promising recovery of lost funds, or requesting upfront payments.

What a Follow-up scam can look like:

  • Someone pretending to be from your bank, a government agency, or a cybersecurity service.
  • Offers to help you recover money (especially crypto) using “insider access” or “special contacts”

Remain cautious of any unexpected calls, emails, SMS’s, particularly if personal or financial details are requested.

Step 3: Managing the emotional aftermath

"Many scam victims experience a deep sense of shame and isolation. But it’s important to remember that scammers are professionals - this is not your fault," says Sarah Wells, a financial counsellor quoted on LifePathCounseling.com.

Common emotional responses

  • Shock and disbelief

    It can be hard to accept you’ve been conned.
  • Guilt and embarrassment

    You might blame yourself, but scams are designed to fool people.
  • Fear and anxiety

    Worrying about future threats is normal, especially if personal details were stolen.
  • Loss of trust
  • You may become wary of any online or financial transactions. Options for complimentary emotional support:

    • Lifeline (13 11 14) – Offers free, confidential crisis support.
    • Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) – Provides mental health advice and counselling.
    • IDCARE Offers specialised support and guidance for identity theft and related scams.

Step 4: Rebuild your confidence

Scams can leave a lasting impact, but taking a few small steps can help you regain your lost confidence.

You might consider:

  • Staying informed
    Our Scam and Security Toolkit includes practical resources to support your awareness.
  • Improving your habits
    Take our Security and Scam Quiz to see what you're doing well and where you could improve.
  • Talking it through
    Speaking with someone you trust such as a friend, family member or colleague can make a big difference.

Your checklist after a scam

Here’s a quick rundown of steps to take after a scam, feel free to print or save this list:

  • Contact MyState Bank or your bank
  • Change All Passwords
  • Request a new bank card
  • Order a free credit check
    • Check for unauthorised accounts or loans in your name.
  • Report the scam
    • Report to Scamwatch, ACCC, and local police if money or identity is stolen.
  • Stay vigilant
    • You may be targeted again by follow-up scams.
  • Seek emotional support
    • Talk to a counsellor or call helplines like Lifeline.
  • Stay informed
    • Monitor scam warnings on official government websites.

Moving forward

Life after a scam might feel uncertain, but remember: every step you take—reporting the incident, securing your accounts, and seeking emotional help—puts you back in control.

You are not at fault, and you do not need to face this alone. By staying informed and supported, you can protect yourself and help others in the community do the same.

Important: The information in this article is intended to be educational. If you need personalised advice, please consult a qualified professional.

At MyState Bank, we believe in supporting our customers through every challenge. Together, we can stay vigilant, share experiences, and rebuild trust in our financial wellbeing.

Real customers. Real scam stories

"I never thought I’d fall for a scam. They had all my details and I believed it was my bank calling. After losing $2,000, I felt humiliated. But once I spoke up, I realised so many others had gone through the same thing."

– Rebecca, 42, MyState Bank Customer


Hearing how others recovered can reassure you that life goes on after a scam. While the immediate aftermath can be painful, it can also be an opportunity to improve your financial and online security.