The Bank of Queensland (BOQ) is urging Australians to be vigilant towards a new scam that is currently circulating.
BOQ says it has received reports of an influx of calls being made by scammers pretending to be representatives of undercover police and requesting cash withdrawals.
This undercover police/cash withdrawal scam involves the scammer claiming that the police are working on an operation to stop a hacker inside BOQ from stealing victims’ money.Â
To enhance their credibility, the scammer typically introduces themselves with an alias, badge or staff number and fake reference number.
The scammer claims that no money will be lost as it will be re-deposited later, whilst another party pretends to be a staff member to gain the victims personal details including address.
BOQ says the callers will coach their victims into withdrawing cash from a BOQ branch and encourage them to provide a cover story. For example, positioning the withdrawal as being for travelling overseas, home renovation work or medical related bills.
After acquiring the cash, the scammers visit the victims address with a duffle bag to collect the cash and then disappear.
“We are urging Australians to keep a look out for unexpected phone calls from individuals claiming to be ‘undercover police’ and to not give in to the pressure they often put on their victims to comply with their demands,” said Bank of Queensland Customer Advocate, Ben Griffin.
“Trusted organisations like the police will never ask for payment or for members of the public to assist in police operations, so if you are called by someone you believe is suspicious take note of the name and badge number of the officer and contact your local police station.
“We are noticing that this scam is particularly targeting older people and those who are most vulnerable, so it’s important to understand what to be on the lookout for. These scammers create layers of information by fabricating scenarios and creating fictious personas to create the illusion of a sophisticated sting operation. Their efforts will even go as far as convincing you to not tell friends, family or even the Bank.
“Too often we hear from customers who wanted to question a suspicious interaction but were unsure who to talk to. With forms of scams becoming more realistic and sophisticated, we want all Australians to feel empowered to ask questions as it can be what ultimately ends up protecting you. Consider speaking to a trusted family member, friend or your bank. We’re highly trained and here to help,” he said.
To protect yourself, BOQ has advised the following:
- Do not disclose personal information in an unsolicited or unexpected phone call;
- Never send or give money to someone you haven’t met in person. Police will never ask you to hand over cash or transfer them money directly;
- End the phone call if the caller is threatening or forcing you to do something, such as withdraw cash;
- If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of correspondence, or individuals, contact BOQ on 1300 55 72 72, or by email financialcrimes@boq.com.au. You can also speak to staff at your local BOQ branch.
