Scams to know
Bank impersonation scams: the fake "fraud team" call
The text says a new device has logged in to your bank account. Minutes later "the fraud team" calls - polite, professional, and already knowing your name. Bank impersonation scams cost Australians more per victim than almost any other phone scam.
How it usually goes
- The set-up: a text about a suspicious payment or new payee - sometimes appearing in the same thread as your bank's real messages, because sender names can be faked.
- The call: a "fraud officer" confirms the "fraud" and says your account is compromised.
- The ask, one of:
- read out the one-time code just texted to you ("to cancel the payment") - it actually approves one;
- move your money to a "safe account" while they investigate;
- install a remote access app so they can "secure" your phone or computer.
Your bank will never ask you for a one-time code, your password or PIN, ask you to move money to another account to keep it safe, or ask you to install remote access software.
How to check
Hang up. Wait a minute (scammers can keep a landline connected), then call your bank on the number on the back of your card or in your banking app. If there really is a problem, they'll see it.
If you've given a code or moved money
- Call your bank immediately and say you've been scammed.
- Change your banking password; uninstall any app they asked you to install.
- Contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160 and report to Scamwatch.
See what to do if you've been scammed.
Report the number
These calls often come from mobiles or spoofed landlines that look local. Report the number on BadCall and choose "Impersonation" - and write "said they were from [bank]" so the next person recognises it.