New protections to help online platforms disrupt scams

The change introduces a ‘safe harbour’, which gives a defence against civil claims for platforms such as social media and telecommunications providers when they act in good faith to disrupt scam websites or content. This is intended to give providers more confidence to act quickly and responsibly, without fear of legal uncertainty.

The safe harbour will include conditions to ensure it is used appropriately, balancing consumer protections and avoiding disruption to legitimate businesses operating online.

This initiative supports the work of the Anti-Scam Alliance, a cross-sector group of government and private organisations working together to prevent, detect and disrupt scams.

The safe harbour defence is being introduced through the Fair Trading Amendment Act, following earlier changes to penalties announced in early November. To further support the initiative, the Alliance is developing a ‘trusted flagger’ system, enabling law enforcement and regulators to share verified scam intelligence with online platforms.

More information can be found on the MBIE website:

Combatting online financial scams