Australians are losing far more to scams than official figures suggest. While the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) reported a record-breaking $3.1 billion lost to scams in 2023, experts warn that the actual figure could be up to ten times higher. With as many as 80–90% of scam incidents going unreported due to embarrassment or lack of awareness, the true cost to Australians may soar into the tens of billions.
"When you consider that only a fraction of scams are reported, the real impact on Australians is staggering,” says Arto Isokoski, founder of WhatSpam Company. "We're talking about losses that could exceed $30 billion annually.”
In response to this alarming trend, the new app WhatSpam has launched on Google Play and the Apple Store. Designed specifically for Australians, WhatSpam provides robust spam-blocking and scam-filtering protection for calls, texts, and emails, helping to safeguard privacy and financial security.
Privacy at the forefront
In an era of growing concern over data privacy, WhatSpam ensures that all personal data remains stored locally on the user's device. The app does not transfer phone data to external servers and doesn't require users to set it as their default call or SMS app, allowing for seamless integration without compromising privacy.
Proven success abroad
WhatSpam arrives in Australia following two years of rigorous testing and success in Finland, where it was originally known as Kilpi, "Shield." The app's effectiveness overseas has laid a strong foundation for its introduction to the Australian market, where the need for reliable spam and scam protection is more critical than ever.
A collective effort against fraud
As scams become more sophisticated and losses—both reported and unreported—continue to mount, tools like WhatSpam offer a tangible means of defence. While technology alone can't eliminate fraud, empowering individuals with advanced protective measures is a significant step towards reducing the impact of these crimes.
Australians interested in bolstering their defences against scams can find more information at WhatSpam's official website and download the app directly from Google Play or the Apple Store.
