Natural disaster scams

Beware: Scammers take advantage of natural disasters

Following the recent flooding events across the Mid North Coast, Coastline Bank is urging our members to stay alert - unfortunately, scammers often use natural disasters to exploit vulnerable communities.

When people are focused on recovery and rebuilding, it can be easier to fall for scams that seem urgent or helpful.

Here are some common tactics to watch out for:

1. Fake fundraising
Scammers may call, email or send SMS messages pretending to represent well-known charities. They’ll ask for donations via card payment or bank transfer - but the money goes straight to them, not to those in need.

2. Impersonating insurance providers
Fraudsters might claim to be from your insurance company and ask for personal or banking details to “process your claim.” This is a tactic to steal your identity or access your accounts.

3. Unlicensed or fake tradies
Scammers may pose as qualified tradespeople, offering to repair flood damage. They may request payment upfront, only to disappear - or complete the job poorly and leave you out of pocket.

4. Utility company impersonations
You might receive a call, email or SMS from someone claiming to be from your gas, electricity or phone provider, requesting your details to organise urgent repairs. If it seems suspicious, it probably is.

Stay protected - what to do:

• Take a moment to pause. If someone calls unexpectedly asking for personal or banking details, stop and think. Ask for a reference number and call the organisation back using a publicly listed number.
• Verify charities before donating. Search for the organisation on their official website, or check the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission register: Search for a charity | ACNC
• Look out for red flags. Poor grammar, spelling mistakes and awkward sentences are common signs of scam emails or texts.
• Don’t click suspicious links. Avoid clicking on any links in messages that ask for payment or personal information, or that prompt you to log in to internet banking.
• Report it immediately. If you think you’ve been targeted or have shared personal information with a scammer, stop all communication and contact Coastline Bank straight away.

For more tips on staying secure, visit our Safety and Security page or pop into your local branch for a chat with our friendly team.

Your safety is always our priority.