Security and Scams
Scammers and their methods are always changing, but what they want stays the same - your identity, your money or both.
Because you take protecting your personal information and accounts seriously, we have comprehensive security measure in place at BCU Bank.
While we do what we can to help prevent unauthorised access, there are a few things you can do to avoid scams.
It is a common misconception that banks and financial institutions have insurance against fraud and scam losses. Unfortunately, once money has been transferred to a scammer, it is extremely difficult to recover - especially if you have authorised the transaction. That's why it's critical you always employ good online security practices and remain scam aware.
The more you can do to protect yourself and your money, the better.
Common scams
Scams come in many shapes and sizes. Learn more about common scams, and what to look out for.
Stay safe online
There are several things you can do to keep your personal information safe when you’re using the internet.
Helpful links
For more tips and the latest information on protecting your financial identity, there are plenty of resources available.
Think you've been scammed?
If you think you've been scammed, or have found a suspicious transaction on your account, please notify us immediately. We will act quickly to attempt to recover the funds on your behalf, however there is no guarantee that this will be successful, and time is important.
To report fraud or a scam, please contact us immediately.
To report a scam to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), use this reporting form on the Scamwatch website.
Protect yourself from scams
Scammers and fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to get your money or your personal details, so you should always be catious. Unfortunately, Australians reported losing more than $568 billion to scams in 2022.
Common types of scams
- Dating and romance scams
- Investment scams
- Phishing scams (via email, text messaging and social media)
- Police, tax, and government scams
- Remote access scams
- Telephone service provider scams (calls claiming to be from a service provider)
Warning signs of a scam
- You receive an unsolicited offer that comes out of the blue.
- It sounds too good to be true.
- There are promises of low effort and no risk, but big rewards.
- You’re asked for personal information (eg. banking details or security passcodes).
- There is a sense of urgency, or a time-limit for what you’re asked to do.
- A business or organisation you usually trust contacts you in an unusual way or asks you to do something they usually wouldn’t.
Helpful links
Here are some external sites that can help you to stay scam aware.
Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) - www.cyber.gov.au
Australian Banking Association - www.ausbanking.org.au/for-customers/scams
Scamwatch - www.scamwatch.gov.au
My Credit File - www.mycreditfile.com.au
Money Smart - www.moneysmart.gov.au
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