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Bank scams
Bank scams
The last couple of decades have seen huge changes in how we do our banking and pay for goods and services. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of new technology to generate a number of potentially very costly scams.
These scams aim to steal your account information and your money. Many of these scams can look and sound like the real thing, but there are ways of picking up on the warning signs so that you don't lose out.
WA ScamNet have received numerous reports from consumers who have received unsolicited emails that look like genuine communications from their bank. At this time there are a number of bogus emails, many featuring a logos from high profile Australian bank doing the rounds. Some are requesting that:
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consumers participate in an online survey by offering money or prizes
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update their account details
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activate their bank or credit card
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verify unusual transactions or
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provide account information to qualify for fee refunds or unlock frozen accounts.
In these emails the scammer will request the consumer to provide their credit card/bank details to receive the money or prizes, confirm personal information, or request consumers' account number and PINs claiming to update their information or unlock their account. Instead, the scammer will use these details to steal money or commit identity fraud.
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Warning signsEmails look like genuine emails from your bank. Some emails even include the realistic logos from established banks . These fake emails may warn of a security scare that has led to your account being frozen and will request personal details, including information about your bank accounts, credit cards and PIN or password to unlock your account. You may be asked to verify an unusual transaction, such as one to Africa. Scammers may ask you to provide your personal information or your bank account details so that you can claim a prize or receive money after you have completed their online survey. |
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If you receive these emails, or any other unsolicited emails that appear to come from a company, banking institution or agency, do not follow any of the links in the email because this can result in unwanted downloads to your computer.
Remember that reputable companies and banks will never ask you to provide your personal banking details. For more information about these phishing scams, refer to the security alerts issued by the following Australian Banks:
Australian Bankers Association
WestpacAMPReserve Bank of Australia
Bank of Cyprus Australia
City Bank Australia |
Bank westSt George BankANZCommonwealthMacquarie Bank Limited
Investec bankLaiki Bank AustraliaRabobankBank of China Australia |
Suncorp BankNAB
Arab Bank AustraliaDeutsche BankHSBC Bank AustraliaING Bank |
