Bendigo Bank backs scam awareness campaign

Bendigo Bank, Australia’s most trusted bank, has backed a new campaign designed to raise awareness of scams and fraud in the community.

The campaign produced by the Australian Banking Association (ABA) explores four scenarios faced by ordinary Australians and the circumstances that should have set alarm bells ringing.

As the cost of scams and fraud continues to rise, the industry led initiative will urge Australians to think twice before they transfer funds, follow suspicious links, or pay an invoice.

CEO and Managing Director of Bendigo Bank, and Deputy Chair of the ABA, Marnie Baker said putting a stop to this criminal activity was a ‘whole of ecosystem’ challenge.

“Scams and fraud are an extremely important and challenging area, not just for banks, but for all of us,” Ms Baker said.

“Bendigo Bank takes fraud and scams very seriously and works closely with government agencies and our intelligence partners to detect malicious and abnormal behaviour. We work closely with our industry partners and platform providers so we can detect and neutralise threats early.”

“Customers also play a vital role by remaining alert to suspicious messages and securing their personal information. Together, with your help, we can reduce the incidents of scams and fraud,” Ms Baker said.

As part of its continued efforts to keep customers safe, Bendigo Bank maintains a webpage dedicated to personal cyber security which is updated with general alerts and tips on how to stay safe.

Ms Baker asked customers to keep in mind that the Bank will never ask for their details, or to transfer money, download software or login via a link sent through email or SMS.

“If you are speaking to someone claiming to be from Bendigo Bank and you are unsure if the caller is legitimate, hang up and contact us directly on 1300 236 344,” Ms Baker said.

The campaign was launched on Tuesday April 11 and will be published online and in newspapers.

Learn more about the campaign.