NGM Group, the customer-owned bank behind Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent, says fraudsters are taking advantage of the busy period when people are checking invoices, lodging tax returns and shopping online for EOFY bargains.
NGM Group Fraud Operations Manager Jason Veltruski said the increased volume of emails, text messages and online transactions made it easier for criminals to disguise scams as legitimate communications.
“At this time of year, Australians are expecting messages from banks, the ATO, retailers and delivery companies, which gives scammers an opportunity to blend in,” Mr Veltruski said.
He warned that fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often copying logos, branding and even phone numbers to make messages appear genuine.
Common scams emerging during the EOFY period include fake ATO messages claiming recipients are owed a refund or have an urgent tax debt, bank impersonation scams alleging suspicious account activity, and fake shopping websites advertising heavily discounted products.
Parcel delivery scams and invoice fraud are also on the rise, with criminals posing as suppliers or service providers and providing false payment details.
Mr Veltruski said one of the biggest warning signs was a sense of urgency.
“Scammers want people to panic and act before they have time to stop and think,” he said.
He advised Australians never to click on links in unexpected emails or text messages and instead access organisations directly through their official websites or apps. People receiving suspicious phone calls should hang up and call the organisation back using its published phone number.
NGM Group is also urging customers never to share passwords, PINs or internet banking security codes, and to be cautious of deals that appear too good to be true.
Consumers should check website addresses carefully, monitor bank accounts regularly and report suspicious activity immediately.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted should contact their bank without delay and report the incident to the ACCC’s Scamwatch service.
“Scammers rely on people being distracted or rushed,” Mr Veltruski said. “The best defence is to slow down, independently verify communications and trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right.”
Tips for avoiding scam threats:
• Never click links in unexpected text messages or emails claiming to be from your bank, the ATO or delivery companies.
• If you receive a suspicious phone call, hang up and contact the organisation directly using the official phone number from its website.
• Never share passwords, PINs or internet banking security codes with anyone.
• Be cautious of sales or offers that seem unusually cheap or create pressure to act immediately.
• Check website URLs carefully and look for legitimate contact details and reviews before purchasing online.
• Monitor your bank accounts regularly and report suspicious activity immediately
