In today’s world, where digital convenience comes with growing risks, protecting your financial information is more critical than ever.
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential for all of us to stay informed and vigilant. At MOVE Bank, your safety is our priority. We’re here to provide the knowledge and tools you need to safeguard your finances and personal information. By understanding these evolving threats and taking proactive steps, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to scams.
-> MOVE Chief Digital Officer Safety Guide: MOVE Bank's Chief Digital Officer has compiled a comprehensive guide to staying safe when shopping online.
Here are some essential resources to stay up to date with current scams and ensure your information is safe:
-> Scamwatch: A trusted government resource designed to help keep Australians safe. Whether you're worried about a suspicious message, phone call, or email, Scamwatch can help.
-> The Little Book of Scams: Recognised internationally as a vital tool for consumers and small businesses.
-> Have I Been Pwned: A private website that tracks data breaches and can inform you if your personal information has been compromised.
If you’re unsure about navigating any of these resources, ask a family member or friend to guide you, or call the organisation if possible - it’s worth it!
Protect yourself. Stay informed.
Phishing Emails and SMS Scams:
What They Are:
These are fake messages designed to look like they’re from your bank, favourite retailer, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), or even toll companies. They’ll often come with a link or attachment, urging you to "act now" to resolve an issue or claim a prize. Spoiler alert: clicking that link is the first step to trouble.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> Don’t click on links or open attachments from senders you don’t know.
-> Always go directly to the company’s official website or app to check for updates.
-> Be cautious of messages with a sense of urgency - they’re a favourite trick of scammers.
Risks:
If you take the bait, you could end up with stolen login details, unauthorised account access, or malware on your device.
Fake Retail Websites (Phantom Sites):
What They Are:
Ever spotted a deal online that’s so good, you jump on it? Hold your horses - scammers create fake shopping sites that look like the real deal, especially during big sales events like Black Friday. These websites lure you in with unbelievable discounts, but trust us, you won’t be getting what you paid for (if anything at all).
How to Spot Them:
-> Look for typos in the URL and make sure it starts with "https" and shows a padlock icon.
-> Check for basic details like a privacy policy and contact information. If they’re missing, it’s a red flag.
-> Use the Australian Domain Authority's register to verify if the website is legitimate.
-> And remember: if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. As tempting as a $20 iPhone might sound, resist the urge!
Risks:
You could lose your money, have your payment details stolen, or both. No thanks.
Social Engineering Scams:
What They Are:
This is where scammers get personal. They’ll call or message pretending to be your bank, trying to convince you to hand over your Visa card’s security code. Sometimes they’ll even reveal part of your card details, claiming it “proves” they’re legitimate. It’s all part of the act.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> If anyone asks for personal details or card information, hang up or ignore the message.
-> MOVE Bank will never ask for passwords, PINs, or remote access to your device.
-> Stay cautious and remember: if someone’s pressuring you, it’s probably a scam.
Risks:
Scammers use this information to authorise fraudulent transactions, leaving you to clean up the mess.
Account Takeover Attacks:
What They Are:
Scammers use stolen login details (often from phishing scams or data breaches) to access your accounts. Once they’re in, they can make unauthorised transactions and wreak havoc.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> Use strong, unique passwords for every account. No, “Password123” won’t cut it.
-> Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible for an extra layer of security.
Risks:
Unauthorised transactions and potential damage to your credit. A nightmare we’d all rather avoid.
Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams:
What They Are:
Get-rich-quick schemes are nothing new, but scammers have taken it up a notch with fake investment opportunities. They’ll promise massive returns and pressure you to act fast. Social media ads and unsolicited messages are their go-to.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> Be sceptical of unsolicited investment offers. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.
-> Always research thoroughly and consult a financial adviser before making decisions.
Risks:
You could lose significant funds, with no actual investment to show for it.
Remote Access Scams:
What They Are:
Scammers call pretending to be from your bank or tech support, asking you to install software so they can “fix an issue” or “secure your account.” Once they’ve got remote access, they can do serious damage.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> Never give remote access to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
-> Verify claims by calling MOVE Bank using our official contact details.
-> Avoid saving your card details on your computer - it’s just one less thing for scammers to grab.
Risks:
They could access your personal information, steal funds, or both.
Card Skimming
What It Is:
Card skimming is when scammers install devices on ATMs or point-of-sale terminals to copy your card information. In Australia, this scam has popped up in various places, and yes, it’s as dodgy as it sounds.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> Inspect ATMs and card readers for anything unusual or signs of tampering.
-> Cover the keypad when entering your PIN - it’s an easy habit that can save you.
-> Stick to well-lit, secure ATMs, preferably those inside bank branches.
Risks:
Your card information could be stolen and used for unauthorised transactions.
Card Not Present (CNP) Fraud
What It Is:
This sneaky scam involves scammers using your card details to make purchases online or over the phone, without needing the physical card. With online shopping on the rise in Australia, CNP fraud is becoming increasingly common.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> Regularly check your account statements for unfamiliar transactions.
-> Use secure payment methods and avoid saving your card details on shopping sites.
-> Set up transaction alerts to keep track of any activity on your account.
Risks:
Unauthorised transactions and potential financial loss.
Charity and Donation Scams
What They Are:
Scammers exploit people’s generosity by pretending to represent legitimate charities, especially during crises or disasters. They’ll contact you via phone, email, or even in person.
How to Protect Yourself:
-> Only donate through official channels directly associated with the charity
-> Verify the charity's legitimacy on the Australian Charities and not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) website.
Risks:
Your money could end up in the hands of scammers instead of those in need.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
-> Contact MOVE Bank or your financial institution immediately.
-> Report the scam to Scamwatch and the National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC).
Your education and awareness are your best protection! As part of our financial awareness initiative, we regularly publish articles with the most relevant and recent safety and security information, as well as information on scam and fraud tactics. Below is a list of our current articles.
Think Before You Click
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Before you click on a link, hover over it to check if the web address looks legitimate. If something seems fishy - spoiler: it probably is - type the web address directly into your browser instead. A few extra seconds can save you a lot of hassle later.
Be Wary of Unexpected Calls and Messages
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Got an out-of-the-blue call asking for your personal info or remote access to your device? Hang up! Then, contact the company directly using their official number. Scammers love to catch you off guard, so staying cautious is key.
Use Secure Payment Methods.
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Stick to secure payment options, like Visa debit or credit cards, or PayPal, which offer fraud protection. Payment methods like wire transfers or cryptocurrencies are a scammer’s dream - they’re untraceable and unrecoverable, so steer clear.
Keep Your Devices and Software Up to Date.
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Outdated devices and software are like open doors for scammers. Regular updates include security patches to help block new threats. Set your devices to update automatically and stay one step ahead.
Pause Before Acting on Urgent Requests.
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Scammers love to create a false sense of urgency, rushing you into making decisions. If something feels off, take a moment to pause and think. Breathe. Legitimate companies won’t pressure you to act immediately.
We utilise the services of Orion, a Queensland based Financial Crimes Service by Indue Ltd. They provide 24/7 Visa Card monitoring for additional security and protection. The Orion team may contact you by phone, email or SMS at any stage to verify transactions on your card.
Visa Secure offers fraud protection while you're shopping online and is designed to provide you with extra protection. Visa Secure may provide you with one-time-passwords via SMS during some online transactions for added security.
To ensure you stay safe whilst shopping online we recommend:
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Keep your passwords secret and update them regularly
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Use multi-factor verification, such as one time passwords
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Read the fine print carefully
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Don't store your card details online
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Treat your cards as if they were cash
Contact us on 1300 362 216
Login to Internet Banking and immediately change your password.
If your card information has been compromised, restrict your card in Internet Banking.
You should never disclose pins and passwords, or provide access to another person including a spouse, family member, friend, bank staff, businesses, technical support, law enforcement or government agencies.
MOVE Bank will never ask you to disclose your pin or password in an email, over the phone, or by any other means. If you ever receive an email link to our website, or asking for your username or password, do not respond or click any of the links in the email.
Always login to internet banking via our direct website, never from a third party link on another website or email. If you do come across such links or emails please contact us immediately on 1300 362 216.
Within Australia
If your Visa card has been lost or stolen in Australia, call us on 1300 362 216 during business hours.
To report a lost or stolen card outside business hours please call the Visa Lost / Stolen Card hotline on 1800 621 199.
Overseas
If your Visa card has been lost or stolen outside Australia, please contact Visa Global Customer Assistance Services using one of the local toll-free numbers provided on the Visa website.
This service is available 24/7, they can help you:
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Block your card to prevent fraudulent activity
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Arrange a replacement card
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Provide emergency access to cash
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Railways Credit Union Limited trading as MOVE Bank | ABN 91 087 651 090 | AFSL/Australian credit licence 234 536 | BSB 724 100 | Swift code WPACAU2S