Man looking at the card holding phone

Be alert to common scams 

Suncorp Bank staff impersonation scams

Scammers are targeting Suncorp Bank customers via various contact methods, falsely claiming to be from Suncorp Bank.

These impersonators contact customers with urgent messages, usually getting them to take action which is not legitimate on something to do with their Suncorp Bank account or their finances in general.

They do this to try to gain access to personal information or finances, often through bank transfers or linking to fraudulent websites.

How to tell if it is really Suncorp Bank

We have strong security measures in place, but it’s also important for you to know how to protect yourself.

Remember that we NEVER:

  • ask you to share your Internet Banking or Suncorp Bank App password over the phone
  • send you text messages or emails asking you to confirm, update or disclose personal or banking information
  • ask you to verify your details, reset your account or supply any personal information via email
  • ask you to provide remote access to any of your devices.

Learn more about how to identify and report online threats

Other common scams to look out for

View latest security alerts 

Impersonation scams from any organisation

In addition to bank impersonation scams, fraudsters pretend to be representatives of other legitimate organisations such as telcos, tech providers, and government agencies, to trick people into providing sensitive information or transferring money. Scammers often contact victims via phone, email or text, claiming there is an urgent issue with their account or a suspicious transaction. They may request personal details, such as account numbers, passwords or verification codes. 

 

Red flags include unsolicited messages or calls, requests for sensitive information and a sense of urgency or threats to take immediate action.

Investment scams

Investment scams deceive individuals into putting their money into fake or high-risk investments, promising unrealistic returns. Scammers often use persuasive tactics, fake websites or fraudulent investment platforms to appear legitimate. They may pressure victims to act quickly, claiming the opportunity is limited. 

 

Warning signs include promises of guaranteed high returns, unregistered investment schemes, and reluctance to provide clear documentation or proof of legitimacy.

Term Deposit scams

A variation of investment scam, term deposit scams involve fraudsters advertising fake high-interest savings or term deposit accounts to lure victims into transferring money. Scammers often pose as reputable financial institutions, using fake websites, emails, or advertisements to appear credible. 

 

Customers should be especially wary of offers that appear unusually generous or too good to be true, even if they seem professionally presented.  Other offers to be wary of include unsolicited messages about exclusive rates, and discrepancies in the contact details or website links compared to the official bank’s information.

Romance/dating scams

Romance scams occur when fraudsters create fake profiles on dating platforms or social media to build emotional connections and exploit victims financially. Scammers often gain trust over time before requesting money, citing emergencies or travel expenses. 

 

Red flags include requests for money, reluctance to meet in person, inconsistent stories and sudden declarations of love or urgency.

Job scams

Job scams target individuals seeking employment by offering fake job opportunities to steal personal information or money. Scammers may post fake job ads, conduct fraudulent interviews or offer roles without proper screening. They often request upfront fees for training, equipment or processing. 

 

Customers should be cautious of unsolicited job offers, roles that require payment to start and employers who avoid face-to-face interviews or official communication channels.

Business email compromise scams

These scams involve culprits using email to trick someone into sending money, often by asking for a fake bill to be paid. Scammers may gain access to a legitimate business’ email account and alter payment details on invoices which are then paid by victims into the scammer’s bank account. 

 

Customers should always seek to confirm payment details independently before making an electronic payment (for example, by calling the intended payee to confirm their account details). This is especially important for new payees — those you haven’t paid previously.

Tips for how to spot scam messages 

While scammers aim to obtain your personal banking and financial information, their deceptive messages can take various forms. These may include:

  • alerting you to suspicious or fraudulent activity on your bank accounts and urging you to click a link to a fraudulent website to "secure your account"

  • claiming a large sum of money is pending transfer to your account and requesting personal information to facilitate the transaction

  • informing you of a missed call from a supposed Suncorp Bank employee and instructing you to call a non-Suncorp Bank phone number 

  • notifying you that your bank cards have been suspended and providing a non-Suncorp Bank phone number to call for more information

  • supplying links for you to verify your personal information

  • posing as friends or family members and requesting money transfers.

What to do if you’ve been scammed 

If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a scam, it’s important to act quickly to minimise potential harm. Stop all communication with the scammer immediately and never share any personal identification or security information.  

To report the incident and seek assistance, Suncorp Bank customers should call us on 13 11 75 or email us at bank.direct@suncorpbank.com.au

If you have downloaded or installed any remote access or screen-viewing software onto your computer or devices, do not use them again until they have been professionally checked and cleaned, and the software has been completely removed.

Reporting the scam can help protect others. You can report scams to Scamwatch and the Australian Cyber Security Centre.

For identity theft concerns, contact IDCARE, a free government-funded service that supports victims of identity crime, at 1800 595 160 or visit IDCARE.

Be cautious of follow-up scams. Scammers may attempt to contact you again, claiming to recover your lost money, track the criminals or charge a fee to return funds. Stay vigilant and report any such attempts immediately.

MoneySmart offers free and confidential financial counselling to help you get your finances back on track. 

Ask Izzy details both national and local support services that may be available to you.

Learn more

Understanding online safety

Keep yourself secure

How we protect your money online

How to bank safely

How to identify and report threats

Online Security FAQs

Resources about scams 

Scamwatch.gov.au

IDcare.org 

Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC)

ACCC: The little black book of scams

This information is intended to be of a general nature only and does not take into account your particular circumstances, financial situation or needs. Please make your own enquiries and seek your own advice before acting on it.