Scams can happen to anyone! This was the key message delivered by the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank team during their dedicated scam awareness session at the recent 2025 QCWA Northern Region Conference.
Scams work because scammers create believable stories and tricks designed to steal money and personal information. Over time, scammers have become more sophisticated, using new technology, products, services and even major events to make their scams appear genuine.
Warning signs include threats or urgent demands for action, requests for payment in unusual ways such as prepaid debit cards, cryptocurrency or instructions to set up new bank accounts under the guise of protecting your funds.
Once money is lost, scammers often target victims again, offering false promises to recover it – a tactic known as a follow-up scam. Sadly, one in three scam victims are scammed more than once.
Attendees at the QCWA Northern Region Conference shared how the information has already changed the way they approach unexpected calls, messages and offers.
QCWA Pioneer Division Vice President Deborah McIntyre said the session helped her understand what to look out for.
“I know now I’ll think twice before clicking on anything suspicious," Ms McIntyre said.
Community Bank Sarina is proud to champion this cause, offering ongoing support through educational resources, including scam awareness booklets available for collection at the branch.
Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley warned customers that scammers were getting smarter.
“Scammers are getting smarter. If we can leave people feeling even a little bit more confident about recognising a scam, that’s a win for our community.”
With Scam Awareness Week happening 25-29 August, Community Bank Sarina encourages everyone to drop into the branch at 37 Broad Street, Sarina and pick up a free copy of the ACCC Little Black Book of Scams and learn more about protecting yourself and your loved ones from online fraud.
L-R QCWA State Vice President Northern Fay Lambert, Community Bank Sarina Customer Service Officer Josie Dahtler, QCWA Pioneer Division Treasurer Sharon Price, Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley. Photo supplied
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