Stay-vigilant-when-it-comes-to-scams

Scams can be sophisticated, convincing and ever changing.

Anyone can fall victim to a scam, so we’re reaching out to remind everyone to remain alert following reports of some recent telephone scams we have been made aware of.

Scam 1 – A virus has been detected on your computer or mobile phone

One type of scam is where the scam caller claims to have detected a virus on your computer or mobile phone, then requests you to enable them remote access to your device by clicking on a link in an email they send to you. The scammer will then ask you to perform a test transaction via Internet banking or your mobile app, then watch you enter your access credentials. The scammer then uses your credentials to make withdrawals from your account without your knowledge. The scammer may ask for payment to remove the virus from your computer or to purchase anti-virus software.

Scam 2 – Seeking your assistance to catch a fraudster

Another type of scam is where the caller claims that they had detected fraud on your ‘account’ and that they need your assistance to identify and trap the fraudsters. They may claim to be sending money to your account then ask you to request an increase in your Internet banking transaction limit and to perform a large test transaction. They may also ask you to enable them remote access to your computer or mobile phone. They will request you not to advise anyone that you are assisting with catching a fraudster and to tell your Financial Institution that the reason for requesting an increase in your transaction limit or the large withdrawal is for renovations, to purchase property or to help a family member or friend that is ill.

For either scam, the caller may ask you to provide personal information such as your address and date of birth. They may also ask you to provide your card details, including your CVV number on the back of your card. Scammers can be demanding, even aggressive when trying to get you to comply with their request.

Should you receive an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be from the fraud or security/cybercrime team of a known company such as Telstra, EBay or bogus organisations such as ‘Australian Cyber Crime’, the caller is very likely to be a scammer.

How to protect against scam callers

  • Never give an unsolicited caller remote access to your computer.
  • Never give your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you made the call and the phone number came from a trusted source.
  • If you receive a phone call out of the blue about your computer and remote access is requested – hang up – even if they mention a well-known company such as Telstra. Telstra does not request credit card details over the phone to fix computer or telephone problems, and is not affiliated with any companies that do.
  • Remember that you can still receive scam calls even if you have a private number. Scammers will dial random numbers until they get a hit.
  • Make sure your computer is protected by regularly installing updates & has installed known/trusted anti-virus software.
  • If you have fallen victim to a scam or you receive a lot of unsolicited emails and phone calls, consider changing your email address and phone numbers.

We’re here to help

Remember, we will never contact you to ask for your personal banking or account details. If you see any suspicious transactions on your account, contact us immediately. If you would like to talk to us further please contact us on 1300 13 22 77. You can also visit the Australian Government website on scams - scamwatch.gov.au.


Community First Credit Union LimitedABN 80 087 649 938 | Operating as Community First Bank | AFSL and Australian credit licence 231204| BSB 512-170