Police issue warning over authority scams targeting multicultural communities
Thursday March 5 2026
Police are warning the public about a number of “authority scams” targeting members of the community.
Officers across several Police Area Commands have received reports of the scams, with some victims reporting losses of more than $50,000.
The scams appear to be targeting multicultural communities, including the Chinese, Vietnamese and Indian communities across Sydney.
Victims have reported receiving calls from someone claiming to be an official from an embassy, or police force, before being told that their passport and personal information were found on a recently arrested individual overseas.
The victim is then threatened with extradition or deportation to face the criminal justice system overseas unless they pay an amount of money.
Some victims have reported receiving multiple calls over several days and via different phone apps including Viber and WhatsApp.
Cybercrime Squad Commander Detective Acting Superintendent Jason Smith said scammers use many tactics to scare victims into handing over their personal information and money.
“These calls, and the threats made, may appear real, but they are not. These people are only trying to take advantage of your fears,” Acting Superintendent Smith said.
“We understand people who receive such calls will be scared and concerned – if you do receive one of these calls, hang up and report it immediately.
“Some of these victims are vulnerable members of our community who are losing thousands of dollars in their savings.
“Anyone who thinks they may have received a scam call, or has fallen victim to a scam, is urged to report it.”
Detective Acting Superintendent Smith said scam calls don’t always come from a foreign number, they are often spoofed to appear to come from an Australian landline or mobile phone number.
Advice for the community:
- Do not share personal information or financial details over the phone
- Do not transfer funds to people you do not know
- Do not respond to threats or demands for payment
- Do not visit websites or click links provided by scammers
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of a fraud or scam is urged to report the matter via the Report Cyber portal or at their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Multilingual officers are stationed at various police stations. You can ring your local police station ahead of time to check which languages are available. Police also use tools such as the Language+ App to communicate with non-English speakers.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
