Scam alert: Scammers likely to exploit Microsoft outage to target consumers

IMB urges Members to remain highly alert for opportunistic scammers exploiting the global Microsoft 365 and Outlook disruption which is affecting consumers in Australia and many countries worldwide.

As we increasingly rely on emails for daily communication, it is critical to stay vigilant during the disruption of a global outage like this. Scammers are highly opportunistic and will deliberately create a false sense of urgency, trying to panic and rush you into making a mistake before you have time to think.

While email systems are disrupted, scammers frequently pivot to ‘vishing’, using phone calls or robocalls to trick people into revealing sensitive information.

Even if you are expecting a phone call from your internet provider or your company’s IT provider, beware, and make sure they are exactly who they say they are. If suspicious, hang up and ring them back on a number you know is genuine.

Be sceptical of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages requesting that you download a software patch or provide remote access to fix your computer. Microsoft will not make unsolicited contact, send urgent emails or pop-ups, or ask for remote device access or payment details to fix this outage.

‍If a caller pretends to be from IMB, it’s important to be extra alert on what they are requesting. IMB will never call you and ask you to send any funds, disclose passwords, SMS authentication codes or request access to your device. ‍

Even when Microsoft systems return to normal, the threat remains active in the period that follows as criminals may continue to pose as technical support.

Avoid sharing any information that is not relevant, and don’t give out information to unknown or unverified individuals or organisations, especially if the contact was unsolicited. Members are reminded to follow Scamwatch’s recommended approach of “Stop. Check. Protect”.

If you encounter a potential scam, take a moment before giving your money or personal information to anyone, make sure the person or organisation you’re dealing with is real, and act quickly if something feels wrong.

Contact us on 133 462 if you suspect you have been scammed so we can help you to secure your accounts.