BOQ Group urges Australians to speak up about scams during Scams Awareness Week {yellow-border}

19 August 2026

BOQ Group is encouraging Australians to have more conversations about scams and take simple steps to protect themselves, their families and their communities during Scams Awareness Week 2026.

Scams Awareness Week, coordinated by Scamwatch from 24 to 28 August, is a national campaign that brings together government, businesses and community organisations to help Australians recognise, avoid and report scams. This year's theme, "No one's just a number", highlights the human impact of scams and the importance of removing the stigma often associated with being targeted by scammers.

As scammers become increasingly sophisticated, BOQ Group is reminding Australians that scams can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or digital experience.

BOQ Group General Manager, Customer Protection & Assistance, Erin Phillips said scammers are becoming more sophisticated and are increasingly using technology to target Australians.

"Behind every scam statistic is a real person whose money, trust and confidence has been impacted."

"Scammers are experts at creating a sense of urgency and exploiting emotions such as fear, excitement and trust to pressure people into making quick decisions."

"Being targeted by a scam is not a reflection of a person's intelligence. These criminals are highly organised and constantly adapting their tactics."

"The best protection is to pause, verify and seek a second opinion before sending money or sharing personal information."

"We encourage customers and community members to talk openly about scams. The more we share experiences and warnings with family, friends and colleagues, the harder it becomes for scammers to succeed."

BOQ Group is supporting Scamwatch's key message of Stop. Check. Protect. by encouraging Australians to:

• Stop before providing personal information, banking details or making a payment.
• Check that the person, organisation or investment opportunity is genuine using trusted contact details.
• Protect themselves and others by reporting scams to their bank, Scamwatch and relevant authorities.

The bank is also reminding customers to remain alert to common scam types, including investment scams, impersonation scams, romance scams, phishing attacks and payment redirection scams.

Recent advances in artificial intelligence, deepfake technology and social engineering techniques are making some scams more convincing than ever, increasing the importance of taking time to verify unexpected requests for money or personal information.

Throughout Scams Awareness Week, BOQ Group will be helping customers understand how to spot warning signs, stay safe online and access support if they believe they have been targeted by scammers.

"Whether it's a phone call, text message, social media contact or investment offer that seems too good to be true, taking a moment to stop and check can make all the difference," Ms Phillips said.

"If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts, contact your bank immediately and seek advice from a trusted source."

For information about common scams and how to stay protected, visit BOQ's online Fraud and Scams Awareness Assistance hub or Scamwatch.