Scams are on the rise, and, yes, farmers are increasingly becoming major targets.
These aren’t just random attacks either.
Scammers are getting smarter, more convincing, and hitting where it hurts most – your hard earned livelihood. But with a little know how, you can outsmart them and protect your farm, your team, and your future.
Let’s dig into the scams causing the most damage and how you can stay ahead of these guys.
Scams Hitting Farmers Hard
Marketplace Scams
Ever seen a ‘too good to be true’ deal on a tractor or farm equipment online? Scammers love to post fake listings on online marketplaces. They’ll push for a deposit or payment before you’ve even seen the goods. Pro tip: Never pay upfront and certainly don’t pay using PayID. Inspect first, pay in person.
Fake Invoices
Imagine paying an invoice for supplies you never ordered, or worse, that you did order and thought you were paying it and doing the right thing. Scammers send out realistic looking bills, hoping you’ll pay without questioning. Always double check before hitting the pay button.
Romance Scams
Scammers aren’t just targeting your farming business, they’re targeting your trust. Using romance, dating apps, or even friendly conversations, they create emotional connections to gain access to your money. Be wary of anyone asking for financial help, especially if you’ve never met them in person. Trust your instincts. If it feels off, it probably is.
Phishing Calls or Emails
“Hi, this is the ATO…” or “We’re calling about your bank account…” Sound familiar? Scammers mimic official organisations, tricking you into sharing sensitive information or making payments. Hang up, verify, and call back using the number on their official website.
Bogus Recruitment Offers
“Just send a small fee, and we’ll secure your new employee.” No legit recruitment agency asks for upfront payments. These scams target desperate farmers, leaving them out of pocket and vulnerable.
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
Pause Before Paying
Got an unexpected invoice? Call the supplier directly using their official contact details. Trust your gut. If it feels off, it probably is.
Train Your Team
Scammers don’t just target you, they’ll try your team too. A quick ‘spot the scam’ session can save a world of trouble.
Lock Down Your Cybersecurity
Strong passwords and two factor authentication are your farm’s digital fences. Keep them updated and high.
Keep an Eye on Your Accounts
Review your transactions regularly for anything that doesn’t add up. The sooner you spot it, the easier it is to stop.
Stay in the Loop
Sign up for scam alerts from Scamwatch. Knowledge is power!
STOP. CHECK. PROTECT.
STOP
Don’t hand over money or details until you’re 100% sure it’s legit.
CHECK
Does something seem off? Verify it before acting.
PROTECT
If you’ve been caught out, call your bank and report it fast.
Statistics Source: AusVeg
What If You’ve Been Targeted?
It happens to the best of us. The key is acting quickly.
Cut Contact
Stop engaging with the scammer immediately.
Report It
Head to Scamwatch to report the incident and follow their advice.
Get Help
Call your bank and local police for support if money is involved.
Spread the Word
Let your fellow farmer network know so others don’t fall for the same trick.
New Rules on Ransomware Payments
Here’s a heads up, under the new Cyber Security Act, if your business pays a ransomware demand, you need to report it to the government within 72 hours.
Failing to report could cost you up to $94,000 in penalties, ouch.
The goal? Hold scammers accountable while creating more transparency around cybercrime.
Scammers are relentless, but let’s start arming ourselves so we can start acting smarter, sharper, and create a community that’s got each other’s backs. Share this with everyone you know, stay vigilant, and let’s keep your farm safe from threats.
It’s your farm, your rules – don’t let scammers call the shots, let’s outsmart them!
