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Stop. Check. Protect: Beware of superannuation scams

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Stop. Check. Protect: Beware of superannuation scams

Scams are everywhere, targeting people from all walks of life and costing Australians billions of dollars each year. Whether it’s fake emails, unexpected phone calls or online schemes, scammers always find new ways to gain your trust and steal your money or personal information.

But 3 simple steps can help keep us all safe from scammers:

1. Stop

Always take a moment before giving your money or personal information to anyone.

Scammers will create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly. Don’t rush to make decisions about money or sharing personal details.

What to do:

  • Say no, hang up, or delete suspicious messages.
  • Take time to think before responding to unexpected requests.
  • Don’t let anyone pressure you into immediate action.
  • Trust your instincts if something feels wrong.

2. Check

Make sure the person or organisation you’re dealing with is real.

Scammers pretend to be from organisations you know and trust. Always verify who you’re really dealing with before taking any action.

What to do:

  • Contact the organisation directly using phone numbers or email addresses you find on their official website or app.
  • Research investment opportunities or offers through official sources like ASIC.
  • Get a second opinion from family, friends, or professionals.

3. Protect

Act quickly if something feels wrong.

The sooner you act, the better you can protect yourself and others from scammers.

What to do:

  • Contact your bank immediately if you think your money has been stolen or you’ve shared financial details.
  • Contact IDCARE (www.idcare.org or call 1800 595 160) if you want support to recover — they can help you create a plan to limit the damage of scams.
  • Report to Scamwatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au) to help protect others.
  • Report to police (www.cyber.gov.au).
  • Change passwords and security details if you think they’ve been compromised.
  • Monitor your bank statements and credit reports for unusual activity.
  • Report the scam to the impersonated organisation and platform where the scam is happening.
  • Being scammed can feel overwhelming. Support is available at Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

    Visit the Australian Government’s ScamWatch website for additional tips and information on how to spot scams and how to protect yourself: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/stop-check-protect
     

    What do we do to protect your super account?

    • To enhance security, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is now required for MemberAccess. When you log in, you’ll receive a 6-digit code by SMS to your registered mobile number.
    • A dedicated team monitors for suspicious activity and regularly reviews security measures to help keep your accounts and super safe.
    • Certain transactions are restricted online to provide an additional layer of protection.
    • Accounts are automatically locked after repeated failed MFA attempts to prevent unauthorised access.