False billing scams

Learn about scams that ask you or your business to pay fake invoices, how to avoid getting scammed and where to report false billing scams.

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False billing scammers will lie to get you to pay money to them for a fake service or product.

The scammers will also try to get you to pay them for a product or service that someone else provided for you.

About false billing scams

Fake billing scammers will often email you a fake or falsified invoice. They may pretend that they are a legitimate business that you know and trust.

Fake invoices are often sent for:

  • supplies that you did not order
  • services or products provided to you by someone else
  • directory listings
  • advertising
  • website domain name renewals.

Advice to protect yourself from false billing scams

Think and check before you pay any invoice. Do not pay until you are sure the invoice is genuine and the payment details are correct.

If you have ordered and received the goods or services from someone, make sure:

  • the payee bank details on the invoice are correct and haven't been changed.
  • you call the company billing you if you receive an invoice saying they have changed their account details. Ask to speak to the person billing you to check the change is genuine.
  • the account name matches the business name you are paying your invoice to.
  • if paying via PayID, make sure that the name on PayID matches the seller.

Find more information about false billing on Scamwatch.

If you think you've been scammed by a false billing scam

If you think you've been involved in a false billing scam, you must act fast to minimise the damage.

You should:

  • call your bank as soon as possible. You can dispute the transaction and stop any further payments.
  • change passwords on your online accounts, like email, banking, and government services.

Report a false billing scam

If you have been tricked by a false billing scam, you should report it to your financial institution immediately.

You can report a case of false billing to police at ReportCyber.

In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000)(opens in a new window).

To help disrupt and follow scam trends, warn others about new scams, and receive advice and support, report your experience to Scamwatch.

To find out more about reporting cybercrime visit Report online abuse, cybercrimes, fraud and scams.

Support for victims of a false billing scam

If you have been affected by a false billing scam, support is available.

If you have been affected by an investment scam, help is available.

  • Scamwatch
    The National Anti-Scam Centre has set up Scamwatch to support awareness and reporting of scams. Visit for more information, advice and to report different scams.
  • Moneysmart
    Get information, tips and advice on keeping your money safe and receive support if a scam is causing you problems with debt.
  • IDCARE
    Help with advice on scams that involve stealing your identity. This free Australian and New Zealand service can help you limit the damage and recover from the scam. Call 1800 595 160.
  • Consumer Affairs Victoria(opens in a new window)
    Advice and information services to support consumers to exercise their rights.

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