Back to: Fraud and scams

It's good practice to familiarise yourself with the latest email scams and stay abreast of the typical tricks fraudsters use. Some such techniques involve sending hoax emails claiming to be from Westpac or other major Australian banks.

Many hoax emails are poorly worded and may contain grammar and spelling errors. If you receive such an email, it's usually a given that it's not from the company it claims to be.

Below is a recent example of a hoax email:

See more hoax email examples.

If you receive one of these emails
Delete the email from your Inbox, your Deleted/Trash folder and your Sent folder (if you forwarded the email). If you are using a computer in an office/corporate environment it is good practice to inform your system administrator of any suspicious emails.

If you clicked on a link within the email
1. Perform a scan for possible viruses or Trojans using your virus protection software. If you need help contact your software vendor.
2. If you do not have anti-virus software, we suggest you use one of the many free tools available online. See updating your software for examples.

Note: do not use Internet Banking until you have up to date anti-virus protection on your computer.

If you believe your security has been compromised or you notice a transaction you did not make, contact us immediately on 132 032.

Report suspected scams
Forward hoax emails to spoof@westpac.com.au and we'll investigate.

Note: We do not respond to emails sent to spoof@westpac.com.au.