If Something Actually Goes Wrong

If you've been hacked, scammed, threatened or sexually extorted:

Don't panic.

Don't pay.

Don't send more information or images.

Save evidence.

Stop communicating with the person where appropriate.

Get some grown-up support early — a parent, teacher, manager or someone else you trust. Reaching out isn't a last resort, it's the sensible first move, and it makes everything after this easier.

You will not be in trouble for asking for help.

Where to report it

• ReportCyber (cyber.gov.au) — Australia's central place to report cybercrime, including hacking, online fraud and extortion
• Scamwatch — for reporting scams, so others can be warned
• IDCARE — Australia and New Zealand's identity and cyber support service, useful if personal information or accounts have been compromised
• eSafety — if you're under 18 and experiencing sextortion or another serious online safety issue, eSafety provides reporting and support pathways, including to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation

The important thing is to get someone involved early.