Australian Chinese community lost $12 million to fake police scams in 2025

The commission received 1,294 reports of the scheme through its Scamwatch service. ACCC deputy chair Catriona Lowe said authority scams targeting the Chinese community produced the highest losses among multicultural groups.

How the scam operates Victims typically receive a call from someone claiming to represent the Australian Consulate-General in Hong Kong. The caller states that a phone number linked to the victim has been used for fraud and that Chinese police are investigating.

The victim is transferred to a second caller who instructs them to verify the number by searching for the Shanghai police department. Once verified, the scammers direct the victim to remain on video calls for extended periods, provide daily schedules, and send photographs every three hours.

Financial transfers and outcomes Victims are told their funds must be examined for legitimacy and are instructed to open accounts at Australian banks before transferring money to accounts presented as controlled by Interpol's China bureau. One victim transferred nearly $140,000 over seven days before reporting the matter.

Westpac recovered $30,000 for that victim. The bank later stated it found no error or failure that contributed to the loss. Consumer Action Law Centre chief executive Stephanie Tonkin said the operation uses psychological pressure and impersonation of official procedures to keep victims isolated and compliant.