Key takeaways
Westpac data reveals that Tuesday around 4pm is when Aussies are most likely to fall for scams.
Close behind are Mondays and Thursdays — all times when people are typically distracted, tired, or multitasking.
In a world full of distractions, scammers are counting on us not stopping to think.
Whether you’re an investor, business owner, or retiree — awareness is your strongest defence.
At 4pm on a Tuesday, most of us are winding down from the workday, juggling school pick-ups, gym sessions, or dinner plans.
But it turns out, scammers are just getting started.
New data from Westpac has revealed that Tuesday afternoons, particularly around 4pm, are prime time for scam activity.
In fact, it’s the most common time Australians are falling victim to scammers, followed closely by Thursdays and Mondays.
And it's not a coincidence.
Westpac’s Head of Fraud Prevention, Ben Young, explained it clearly:
“Scammers are opportunistic.
They’re targeting you when you’re distracted and your guard is down.”
Think about it. You might receive a dodgy text message in the morning but not act on it until later in the day, when your focus is splintered.
That’s exactly what scammers are counting on.
By the time 4pm rolls around, you’re tired, multi-tasking, and more likely to click without thinking.
Scam trends: What’s happening at 4pm?
According to Westpac’s transaction data, the most common types of scams occurring during this late afternoon window include:
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Remote access scams – 29%
These often involve someone posing as tech support, urging you to download software or give access to your computer. -
Investment scams – 20%
Promises of high returns or exclusive offers targeting those chasing financial gains. -
Buying and selling scams – 13%
Dodgy online listings, fake marketplaces, or manipulated payment requests.
These scams are meticulously timed to catch you off-guard.
Scammers know when you're less likely to question an unexpected message, a seemingly urgent request, or a too-good-to-be-true opportunity.
Scams don’t just cost money, they derail lives
One of the biggest myths is that scams only target the naive or elderly.
That’s not the case anymore.
These scams are sophisticated, emotionally manipulative, and increasingly using technology to appear legitimate.
A remote access scam can cost someone their entire savings.
An investment scam could delay retirement.
And a buying scam can hurt trust in online commerce.
The financial damage is significant, but the emotional toll can be even greater.
Simple tips to stay safe
While no one is completely immune, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
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Pause before you click – If it feels rushed or urgent, that’s a red flag.
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Don’t share personal or financial details with anyone you haven’t verified independently.
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Ignore unsolicited messages asking you to click a link, update details or make payments.
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Always confirm payment details directly with the company before transferring funds.
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Be sceptical of high-return investments promoted by strangers—especially if they involve crypto or offshore accounts.
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Phone a friend – If you’re unsure, talk to someone. Scammers thrive in silence and secrecy.
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Report any suspicious contact immediately to your bank—even if you’re not sure you’ve been scammed.
Final thoughts
The real takeaway here isn’t just about the 4pm Tuesday “scam hour.”
It’s about how easily we can fall into a trap when we’re not paying full attention.
In a world where digital distractions are everywhere, scammers are banking on us not taking that extra moment to stop and think.
So, whether you're a busy professional, a property investor, or a retiree enjoying your time, be scam-aware.
Your financial safety relies on constant vigilance, not just tools and technology.
Because when it comes to protecting your wealth, staying informed is just as important as staying alert.
