The comprehensive global survey, which included over 1,000 Australians among more than 7,000 participants across eight markets, highlights a worrying trend. The Australian figures surpass the global average, with 42% of Australians targeted by job scams compared to 38% globally. Of those targeted, 18% have fallen victim. Additionally, 29% of Australians have been ensnared in financial scams or fraud, illustrating how economic stress is driving digital risk.

Half of the Australian respondents reported that their financial security or income has been adversely affected over the past year, slightly higher than the global figure of 48%. Furthermore, 38% of Australians express significant concern about the current economic climate and its potential impact on their financial security in the upcoming year.

Economic pressure turns into digital vulnerability

As Australians grapple with escalating living costs, scammers are exploiting individuals’ desperation for extra income through deceptive job offers and investment schemes. Among those whose income was negatively impacted, 65% cited increased living expenses, while 13% reported job loss or layoffs.

More than half of Australians (56%) have received unsolicited texts or emails offering jobs or additional income opportunities. Alarmingly, 43% of these contacts were from unidentified companies, and 37% were from unrecognised entities. A significant 68% were promised substantial earnings for minimal work hours, while 77% were directed to continue communication via phone, email, or messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram — a common tactic to evade detection.

Nearly a quarter (23%) of Australians responded to these messages, with almost half (46%) doing so out of a need for extra income. However, only 35% are currently earning money from these engagements, and a mere 25% are employed through them. Of those who did not earn money, 40% were asked to invest their own funds.

For the 18% of Australians who fell victim to job scams, 28% realised the scam only after their accounts were hacked, and 27% after losing a significant amount of money. "Job scams are among one of the most insidious forms of online fraud because they target people’s livelihoods," said Ashley Millar, Trend Micro’s Director of Consumer Education. "When living costs rise and genuine job opportunities feel scarce, offers that promise a quick buck can look incredibly convincing. Scammers exploit that pressure, turning consumers’ search for financial stability into their biggest vulnerability."

Discount desperation: the new scam goldmine

Australians’ quest for bargains is also leading to riskier online behaviour. Many consumers are clicking hastily, trusting unfamiliar retailers, and ignoring warning signs, creating new opportunities for scammers. Over half (58%) of Australians feel compelled to spend more time hunting for the best deals compared to last year, with 74% attributing this to concerns about rising prices and 13% citing tighter budgets.

A significant 36% of shoppers almost always click to learn more or make purchases when they see attractive online discounts or promotions. Additionally, 23% typically click on links in text messages offering promotions or discounts.

Cutting corners on cyber safety

Despite increasing awareness of online threats, one in five Australians (20%) admit to disabling their antivirus or security software, either temporarily or permanently, to enhance device performance. This risky behaviour leaves them more vulnerable to cyber threats.

"When money’s tight, people are more likely to take risks, and that is exactly what scammers count on," explained Millar. "The holiday shopping season, especially high-pressure moments like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is prime time for scams. Shoppers are rushed, distracted, and eager to save, which makes them more likely to click impulsively or ignore red flags. For cybercriminals, it’s the perfect storm."

Millar advises, "The best defence isn’t complicated. If a deal looks too good to be true, assume it is. Go directly to trusted websites, avoid clicking links directly from messages or ads, and always keep your security software switched on. A few extra seconds of caution can mean the difference between a genuine bargain and a costly mistake."