Scammers are using increasingly convincing calls and messages to impersonate banks, fraud teams, payment services such as PayPal, merchants and other trusted organisations.
The story may change during the conversation. A scammer might initially claim to be from one organisation and then offer to transfer you to Auswide Bank or our Fraud team. They may already know your name or other information about you, or ask questions designed to find out who you bank with. This does not mean the contact is genuine, no matter how convincing it sounds.
How to protect yourself
If you receive an unexpected call or message:
- Never share your Internet Banking password, card PIN or one-time security code with anyone.
- Don’t assume someone is genuine just because they know your name or other information about you.
- Be cautious about revealing who you bank with or providing other personal or banking information.
- Never trust an unexpected caller who claims to be from Auswide Bank or offers to transfer the call to the Auswide Bank Contact Centre or our Fraud team.
- Take the time to read any security code or warning message carefully. Never provide a security code to someone who has contacted you, even if they tell you the code is needed to stop fraud or protect your account.
- Don’t rely on caller ID or branding alone. Scammers can make calls and messages appear legitimate.
Be wary of WhatsApp and other messaging apps
Auswide Bank will never contact you through WhatsApp, social media, or other messaging apps. Scammers may use Auswide Bank’s name, logo or other branding on these services to make their profile or contact with you appear genuine. Seeing the Auswide Bank name or logo does not mean you are communicating with us.
If you're unsure, stop and contact us yourself
End the call or message and contact Auswide Bank using the number on your bank-issued card, or contact details available through our official website, mobile banking app or Internet Banking.
If you think you may have shared personal or banking information, provided a security code, or notice a transaction you don’t recognise, contact us immediately.
Want to learn more about the ways to stay scam smart? Visit Scam Support
