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1. Missed Delivery, Call or Voicemail (Flubot) Scams
The "Flubot" is malicious software that scammers try to install on your mobile phone. Once installed, it can track your data, steal personal information, access your contacts, and even send more scam messages from your device.
- How it works: You receive a text message, often purporting to be about a missed call, a voicemail, or a parcel delivery from a reputable organisation like Australia Post or DHL. The message will contain a link and instruct you to click it or download an app to check the "voicemail," "track a parcel," or "schedule a delivery time."
- The Danger: Clicking the link installs the Flubot malware. This can give scammers access to your passwords, accounts, and personal information, leading to financial loss and further spread of the scam. If you call back the number that sent the text, you might even be calling another victim whose phone is infected.
- What to look for: Text messages often contain a link with a series of 5-9 random letters and numbers at the end. They may try to scare you into clicking by claiming your device is already infected and needs a "security update."
- Remember: NEVER...
- Click on any links in suspicious text messages.
- Call back the number that sent the text message.
- Download any apps or software if prompted by such a message.
- What to do: Delete the message immediately. If you suspect your device is infected, contact an IT professional, download official Android anti-virus software through the Google Play Store, or perform a factory reset of your device as soon as possible.
2. Lost Phone Scams ("Hi Mum" Scam)
This is an increasingly common scam designed to trick you into sending money urgently.
- How it works: You receive a text message from an unfamiliar number, often starting with "Hi Mum" or "Hi Dad," claiming to be a relative or friend who has lost their phone and needs urgent help. They will then ask for money to be deposited into an account.
- The Danger: The scammer preys on your immediate concern for a loved one, pressuring you to act without verifying.
- Remember: NEVER...
- Transfer any money until you have spoken directly with your relative or friend using a known and trusted phone number (not the one they texted from). Usually, their original phone is still working.
3. IMB Phone Impersonation Scams
Scammers may directly impersonate IMB Bank to gain your trust and access your accounts.
- How it works: Scammers may call you unexpectedly, claiming to be from "IMB Security" or "IMB Fraud," stating that a fraudulent transaction has occurred on your account (sometimes even referencing a location far from you). They might have some of your personal or card information already, which they use to sound legitimate, but they will ask you to "confirm" or provide more sensitive details like your card CVV, last 4 digits of your card, your member number, Internet Banking password, or even SMS security codes.
- The Danger: They aim to trick you into giving them the information they need to access your accounts directly.
- Remember: IMB Bank will NEVER ask you to:
- Share your login details, PINs, passwords, or any security codes sent via SMS (especially those that say "DO NOT SHARE THIS CODE").
- Give possession of your card.
- What to do: If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from IMB, hang up immediately. Then, call IMB Bank back directly on our official number 133 462 or visit your local branch to verify if the request was legitimate.
Your Best Defence: Stay Vigilant
- Be Sceptical: Approach any unsolicited call or SMS with caution, even if it seems to be from a known organisation.
- Verify Directly: Always verify the legitimacy of a request by contacting the organisation directly using their official, publicly listed contact details (not the ones provided in the suspicious message or call).
- Protect Your Information: Never share your login details, PINs, or security codes with anyone.
By staying informed and following these practical steps, you can help protect yourself against phone and SMS scams. For more security information, visit the IMB Bank Security Articles section of our website.
