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Visa Card Security

Scammers are getting smarter - Learn how to stay one step ahead

In today’s world, where digital convenience comes with growing risks, protecting your financial information is more critical than ever.

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential for all of us to stay informed and vigilant. At MoveBank, your safety is our priority. We’re here to provide the knowledge and tools you need to safeguard your finances and personal information. By understanding these evolving threats and taking proactive steps, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to scams.


Here are some essential resources to stay up to date with current scams and ensure your information is safe:

  • Scamwatch: A trusted government resource designed to help keep Australians safe. Whether you're worried about a suspicious message, phone call, or email, Scamwatch can help.
  • The Little Book of Scams: Recognised internationally as a vital tool for consumers and small businesses. 
  • Have I Been Pwned: A private website that tracks data breaches and can inform you if your personal information has been compromised. 

If you’re unsure about navigating any of these resources, ask a family member or friend to guide you, or call the organisation if possible - it’s worth it!

Protect yourself. Stay informed. 


Phishing Emails and SMS Scams:

What They Are:

These are fake messages designed to look like they’re from your bank, favourite retailer, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), or even toll companies. They’ll often come with a link or attachment, urging you to "act now" to resolve an issue or claim a prize. Spoiler alert: clicking that link is the first step to trouble.

How to Protect Yourself:

  • Don’t click on links or open attachments from senders you don’t know.
  • Always go directly to the company’s official website or app to check for updates.
  • Be cautious of messages with a sense of urgency - they’re a favourite trick of scammers.

Risks:

If you take the bait, you could end up with stolen login details, unauthorised account access, or malware on your device.

Fake Retail Websites (Phantom Sites):

What They Are:

Ever spotted a deal online that’s so good, you jump on it? Hold your horses - scammers create fake shopping sites that look like the real deal, especially during big sales events like Black Friday. These websites lure you in with unbelievable discounts, but trust us, you won’t be getting what you paid for (if anything at all).

How to Spot Them:

-> Look for typos in the URL and make sure it starts with "https" and shows a padlock icon.

-> Check for basic details like a privacy policy and contact information. If they’re missing, it’s a red flag.

-> Use the Australian Domain Authority's register to verify if the website is legitimate. 

-> And remember: if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. As tempting as a $20 iPhone might sound, resist the urge!

Risks:

You could lose your money, have your payment details stolen, or both. No thanks.

Card Skimming

What It Is:

Card skimming is when scammers install devices on ATMs or point-of-sale terminals to copy your card information. In Australia, this scam has popped up in various places, and yes, it’s as dodgy as it sounds.

How to Protect Yourself:

  • Inspect ATMs and card readers for anything unusual or signs of tampering.
  • Cover the keypad when entering your PIN - it’s an easy habit that can save you.
  • Stick to well-lit, secure ATMs, preferably those inside bank branches.

Risks:

Your card information could be stolen and used for unauthorised transactions.

Card Not Present (CNP) Fraud

What It Is:

This sneaky scam involves scammers using your card details to make purchases online or over the phone, without needing the physical card. With online shopping on the rise in Australia, CNP fraud is becoming increasingly common.

How to Protect Yourself:

  • Regularly check your account statements for unfamiliar transactions.
  • Use secure payment methods and avoid saving your card details on shopping sites.
  • Set up transaction alerts to keep track of any activity on your account.

Risks:

Unauthorised transactions and potential financial loss.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

  • Contact MoveBank or your financial institution immediately.
  • Report the scam to Scamwatch and the National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC).


Think Before You Click

  • Before you click on a link, hover over it to check if the web address looks legitimate. If something seems fishy - spoiler: it probably is - type the web address directly into your browser instead. A few extra seconds can save you a lot of hassle later.

Be Wary of Unexpected Calls and Messages

  • Got an out-of-the-blue call asking for your personal info or remote access to your device? Hang up! Then, contact the company directly using their official number. Scammers love to catch you off guard, so staying cautious is key.

Use Secure Payment Methods

  • Stick to secure payment options, like Visa debit or credit cards, or PayPal, which offer fraud protection. Payment methods like wire transfers or cryptocurrencies are a scammer’s dream - they’re untraceable and unrecoverable, so steer clear.

Keep Your Devices and Software Up to Date

  • Outdated devices and software are like open doors for scammers. Regular updates include security patches to help block new threats. Set your devices to update automatically and stay one step ahead.

Pause Before Acting on Urgent Requests

  • Scammers love to create a false sense of urgency, rushing you into making decisions. If something feels off, take a moment to pause and think. Breathe. Legitimate companies won’t pressure you to act immediately.