Scams that target the bereaved

A common scam: a caller claims to be from the funeral director, the bank, the tax office, the hospital, or a utility — and says there’s an urgent outstanding fee that needs to be paid immediately, often by bank transfer or gift card.

Scam emails often appear around a death, claiming there’s a will to read, an inheritance to claim, or a document to sign. They will ask for a “release fee” or personal ID documents. Real solicitors and banks do not ask for fees upfront by email.

As soon as you notify a bank of a death, the account is usually frozen. Until then, check for unexpected transactions. Change any shared passwords (email, online banking) as soon as you reasonably can.

Call your bank immediately. Report to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au. Then ring the National Debt Helpline — they support people who have been scammed and can help you figure out what to do next.