Everything you need to know about remote access scams

Scammers can target victims in many forms. Some try to capture personal information by getting you to click fraudulent links, while others convince you to share login information and passcodes. But what if a scammer could gain complete open access to your devices? Remote access scams do exactly that. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a remote access scam?

A remote access scam happens when an unauthorised person gains control of your devices from a remote location. Scammers may contact you via phone, text or email claiming to be from a company you know, and convince you to install software, or provide personal information that allows them to access your accounts.

The scammer may claim to be your bank, a utility company, telecommunication services (such as NBN), or a government agency. Initially they may sound knowledgeable and legitimate, before becoming persistent.

What are the warning signs of a remote access scam?

Remote access scams often begin with a legitimate sounding request, so it’s important to always proceed with caution before you act. Be especially wary of calls, text, emails about online banking in which there is a request to:

• Download programs or software that allow screen sharing to be enabled.
• Reset your password after a recent series of scam attacks.
• Purchase a new modem to fix your internet connection.
• Update your account or device with new security features.
• Provide personal details to verify your account activity.

Bendigo Bank will never ask you to transfer funds, send money or ask for your PIN/Password.

How to protect yourself

Many of us try to stay safe online by securing our accounts with strong passwords and being wary of phone calls from unknown sources. But remote access scams require an additional layer of diligence.

• Never install software at the request of someone you don’t know, especially if it involves granting remote access to your computer or phone.
• Make sure you complete regular software updates on your devices and use antivirus software where possible.
• Never provide your e-banking security code to anyone. That includes in person, over the phone or online, even if they claim to work for your bank.
• Ignore all requests for remote access to your computer.

Important: Bendigo Bank may call and ask to verify your identity by asking for your verbal password. However, we will never ask you for any PIN, password or security code relating to your e-banking. If you feel uncomfortable, you can always verify our branch contact details on our website and call us back.

Always remember to Stop, Think and Protect.

• Stop – before you make a quick decision, stop. Could this be a scam? Scammers benefit from rushed decision making.
• Think – is this person really who they say they are? How can I verify this is legitimate?
• Protect – act quickly if something feels wrong.

What to do if you think you’ve been scammed

If you notice unusual activity or if a scammer gets your money or information, visit www.bendigobank.com.au/security to report it and get support. If you think you have transferred money to a scammer, call us immediately on 1300 236 344.

If you have provided personal information, particularly photo identity documents like passports and driver’s licences, contact IDCARE to take steps to protect your identity.

For the latest scam alerts and information to keep yourself and your family safe online, visit www.bendigobank.com.au/security and learn more about how to protect yourself.