Phishing scams are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to steal personal information by pretending to be a trusted organisation.
These scams have cost Australians millions of dollars, with losses exceeding $20.5 million last year alone, according to Scamwatch. As scammers become more sophisticated, it’s essential to stay informed and vigilant to protect yourself.
How Do Phishing Scams Work?
Scammers often pose as banks, utility companies, government agencies, streaming services (like Netflix), payment platforms (like PayPal), or even law enforcement. They reach out through phone calls, emails, text messages, or social media, attempting to trick you into revealing personal details, financial information, or access to your device.
They may also use links that install malware or remote access software, or convince you to install software (such as AnyDesk), giving them control of your computer or phone. This can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, or even unauthorised transactions on your accounts.
Warning Signs of a Phishing Scam
Stay alert to these red flags:
- Emails or messages from unusual addresses that look similar to legitimate organisations but aren’t quite right
- Requests for personal or banking information, such as passwords, credit card details, or identification documents
- Requests with urgency or threatening language, pressuring you to act quickly
- Deals that seem ‘too good to be true’ or offers of rewards, refunds, or prizes that require a processing or delivery fee.
- Unexpected calls or emails asking for remote access to your device to “fix” an issue or verify your identity
How to Stay Safe
The best way to protect yourself is to stay cautious and follow Scamwatch’s Stop, Check, Protect approach:
- Stop – Pause before taking action or responding to unexpected messages or requests.
- Check – Contact the organisation directly using official details to confirm legitimacy.
- Protect – Contact your bank if you notice unusual activity and report scams to protect others.
What to Do If You’re Scammed
If you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank or financial institution immediately and report to Scamwatch and/or cyber.gov.au. By sharing your story, you contribute to protecting others and stopping these criminals.
Remember, MOVE Bank will never ask for your internet banking password, card details, one-time passwords, or request remote access to your device. If you have provided your details or access, call us immediately at 1300 362 216.
Useful tools and resources:
Fraud statistics from: www.scamwatch.gov.au/
