Scams cost individuals and businesses a lot of time and money. However, if you try to keep these principles, you’re a lot less likely to fall into scammers’ traps.

Sharing isn’t always caring

It may be seem obvious, but it’s important not to share your banking or debit card details with friends and family. Also, remember to avoid logging into public computers with your personal accounts, where possible.

Pause. Google. Ask

Say you’re asked for money to pay for extra delivery costs on a parcel - take time to consider whether the payment request is genuine, Google the person or the company who is asking for payment, and - when in doubt - ask a friend or parent for a second opinion.

Scams come in all shapes and sizes

Remember there’s not just one type of scam. Scams can include online shopping scams, remote access scams, SMS & email scams, job scams, investment scams, as well as threat and penalty scams. Plus, romance and dating scams are on the rise.

Pay close attention to your messages or emails

If there’s an eerily familiar email address (e.g.@commbank.com), spelling mistakes, incorrect grammar, or an urgent call to action they might not be legitimate. For example, banks will rarely (if ever) ask you to confirm, update, or share your personal or banking info over email.

Register for NetCode

It’s a free service available to all NetBank customers and adds an extra layer of security to your account.

Received a suspect message?

If you provided your NetBank password, change it via NetBank or the CommBank app.

If you haven’t clicked on any of the message content, report it to CommBank’s 24/7 Cyber Security Centre by forwarding it to hoax@cba.com.au, then delete the message.

If you have already clicked on something, don’t panic!

If you shared debit or credit card details, lock your old card and request a new one via NetBank or the CommBank app.

If you’ve pressed a link or opened an attachment on a computer:

  • Close your browser
  • Empty your browser cache
  • Clear your browser history
  • Perform a virus scan if you have anti-virus software

If you’ve pressed a link or opened an attachment on a mobile:

  • Ensure you have the latest operating system
  • Make sure you have the latest version of the CommBank app
  • Run an anti-virus scan if one is available on your device

For more info, visit ACCC Scamwatch.