Fake Purchase Callback Scams: Scamwatch Alert

Q: How do I check whether a purchase is real?

Log in to your account using the official app or website.

TL;DR: Scamwatch issued an alert on 14 July 2026 about fake messages claiming you bought something you did not, typically worth $300 to $2,000. They arrive by text, email, app notification or calendar invitation, and push you to call a number. Callers may then ask for bank details, software installation or gift cards.

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What Scamwatch reported

In an alert published on 14 July 2026, Scamwatch described fake messages saying you purchased something you did not buy, typically between $300 and $2,000. Common fake items include phones, security software, plane tickets, event tickets and cryptocurrency.

Delivery methods include text messages, emails, app notifications and calendar invitations. Impersonated brands and services include Shop App receipts, Google Meet invitations, Apple iMessage, PayPal, Norton and McAfee renewals, and Microsoft subscription emails.

Red flags

A payment notification for something you do not recognise, with a phone number to call.
A high-value item and urgency about an imminent charge.
Requests for refund details, bank information or passwords.
A demand that you install control software.
A request to buy gift cards.

Protection steps

Scamwatch's advice is to stop, not call the number in the message and not share financial information, passwords, one-time codes or gift card numbers. Check by logging in to your account through the official app or website to see whether the payment is real. If you sent money or shared personal information, act quickly.

Never install software for a stranger who says they will refund you. Our guides on tech support scam recovery, remote access scam recovery and bank impersonation scams in Australia explain what happens next if you did.

Why the callback is the trap

Most phishing wants a click. This version wants a phone call, which moves the victim out of the reach of spam filters and onto a live line with a scammer who can adapt. The fake receipt is only the bait.

Once on the call, a scammer may pose as a billing or security officer and say the refund can only be processed by installing remote-control software or by moving money to a 'safe' account. That is the point at which control of your device or bank account is lost. Hang up, check your genuine account through the official app, and speak to your bank if you have shared anything.

Where to report

Report the message to Scamwatch, and contact your bank at once if you shared details. Our guide on how to report a scam to Scamwatch explains the steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a fake purchase callback scam look like?

A message saying you bought something you did not, typically worth $300 to $2,000, with a phone number to call to dispute the charge.

How do the messages arrive?

By text, email, app notification or calendar invitation, according to Scamwatch.

What should I not do?

Do not call the number, and do not share financial information, passwords, one-time codes or gift card numbers.

'You Bought Something' Messages Want You to Phone a Scammer, Scamwatch Warns