Scam Awareness Week highlights the importance of a united approach in combating scams.
Collaborative action from individuals, businesses, and the government is increasingly vital as scams evolve in sophistication and scale. Australians reported over $119 million in scam-related losses in the first four months of 2025. This Scam Awareness Week highlights the shared responsibility of protecting one another from these complex scams. While everyday Australians must remain vigilant in their online behaviours, the primary responsibility for safeguarding the community rests with businesses and government intervention. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission reported a 28% increase in scam-related losses, despite a decline in overall scam reports compared to June last year. This trend indicates that scams are becoming harder to detect and more strategic, leading to a higher success rate. With the rise of AI, scams are expected to become even more intricate, exposing vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
To combat these challenges, businesses must prioritise collective action over commercial interests. By sharing vital information and collaborating, companies can create a more resilient defence against scammers who exploit gaps between organisations. Lenovo exemplifies this commitment by investing in AI innovation while ensuring ethical and secure AI use. The company aligns with global initiatives, such as UNESCO’s recommendations on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, and encourages others to follow suit. The Australian government also plays a crucial role by holding businesses accountable for failing to protect customers. It should establish clear guidelines and promote data sharing among businesses and agencies. Enforcing corporate accountability, including potential financial compensation for scam victims, would further strengthen consumer protection and deter negligence in safeguarding against scams.
Categories: Scam Awareness, Collective Responsibility, Business and Government Accountability
Tags: Collaboration, Scams, Sophistication, Vigilance, Losses, Businesses, Government, Accountability, AI, Protection