7 May 2025

Suncorp Bank encourages customers to talk, share, and stay aware of scams this Mother’s Day

5 min read

Suncorp Bank urges customers to stay alert to phishing scams this Mother’s Day, where cyber criminals pose as reputable businesses or individuals to gather personal information or money.

Since 1 January 2025, Scamwatch, Australia’s National Anti-Scam Centre, has seen more than 16,700 reports of phishing scams amounting to total losses of $11.1 million, an increase of over 200 per cent compared to the same 2024 time period (Scamwatch, 2025).

Executive Manager, Financial Crime, Operations and Strategy, Paul Gardner said there is a heightened risk for phishing scams over the Mother’s Day period.  

“Opportunistic offenders may attempt to take advantage of those looking to purchase gifts this Mother’s Day. Some may go to great lengths by posing as popular brands, or family members to convince you into sending sensitive information or transferring money,” he said.

“We encourage parents to talk to their children about the warning signs, share any personal experiences to build collective understanding, and stay aware of the ever-evolving scam environment. It is important that your household can identify if something's not right and take action if necessary.”

Identifying phishing scams:

  • The website looks different (colour, imagery, URL, pricing) from the usual format and asks for information that is not normally required by the real site. 

  • Messages, phone calls, or emails from a trusted individual or organisation seem ‘out-of-the-blue' and request personal information to be updated or actions to be undertaken as a matter of urgency.

  • Changes to your computer including icon differences or slower processing speeds may be a sign of malware

Safeguarding against phishing scams:

  • Conduct a Google search with the communications received to identify any scam references.  

  • Ensure websites are secure by finding the secure symbol at the start of the URL address (https, not http) or checking for a closed padlock or unbroken key icon on the bottom right corner of your browser.

  • Check the contact information and message for inconsistencies such as simple spelling errors, strange or usual email addresses or formatting issues.

  • Do not click on links requesting personal information or urgent action from a trusted person or organisation. Report as spam and delete.

  • Do an independent check on the person or organisation phoning you to confirm their details. 

  • If you believe you have been impacted, contact your bank and IDCARE immediately, and report the scam to Scamwatch.

To continue protecting customers in an ever-evolving scam environment, Suncorp Bank introduced higher risk OSKO fast payments in March, alerting customers to delayed payment processing. This allows customers extra time to consider if they may have been involved in a scam and cancel the payment if necessary.

“Suncorp Bank is committed to safeguarding customers’ assets and our OSKO fast payments initiatives is another way to fight scammers and provide another layer of safety,” said Paul. 

“If you believe you have fallen victim to a scam this Mother’s Day, please call 13 11 75 or send an email to bank.direct@suncorpbank.com.au at your earliest convenience.” 

For more information about scams, please visit Be Alert to Common Scams | Suncorp Bank