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ANZ’s head of customer protection warns that scammers could take advantage of the natural disaster to make a quick buck.
As residents of northern NSW and Queensland continue to clean up after wild weather caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, scammers are expected to take advantage of those looking to give a hand.
“Scammers can disguise themselves as recovery support, manipulating those affected by the crisis into sharing sensitive information or making fraudulent payments under false pretences,” Shaq Johnson, ANZ’s head of customer protection, said in an 11 March statement.
“Staying vigilant and taking simple precautions can help safeguard your recovery journey and prevent further setbacks during an already challenging time. Since scammers thrive on urgency and uncertainty, a thoughtful pause can be your strongest defence against fraudulent activity.”
Scammers can impersonate trusted organisations via fake emails, text messages, and fraudulent phone calls. They may pose as banks, charities, insurance companies, or disaster relief services.
ANZ suggests that anyone receiving a message from a bank or other company in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred should make sure to verify the source of any communications, be wary of being directly contacted by fake charity appeals, and be careful about sharing any personal information.
One thing to watch for in particular is poor grammar and spelling. Legitimate organisations tend to be clear and straightforward when they contact their customers.
The bank notes that, like many other financial services, it will never ask for personal details or share links in any messages.
“Those wishing to help should exercise the same caution when making contributions, ensuring their donations go to verified relief efforts that will genuinely assist those affected,” Johnson said.
If you believe you are a victim of a phishing scam, or see any discrepancies in your bank account, please contact your bank and report the matter to Report Cyber.
If there is an immediate threat to life or risk of harm, call 000.
David Hollingworth has been writing about technology for over 20 years, and has worked for a range of print and online titles in his career. He is enjoying getting to grips with cyber security, especially when it lets him talk about Lego.
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