Spotting Scams and Protecting Your Farm and Finances
At Rabobank, we know that running a farm is more than a job—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re harvesting crops, managing livestock, or maintaining machinery, your focus is on the land. But while you’re working hard in the paddock, scammers are working hard online and over the phone to steal your hard-earned money.
Fraud and scams are on the rise across Australia, and rural communities are not immune. In fact, scammers often target regional areas, knowing that internet access may be limited and digital literacy varies. That’s why we’re committed to helping you stay informed and protected.
Common Scams Affecting Rural Clients
- Invoice Scams: You receive a fake invoice that looks like it’s from a supplier or contractor. Always double-check payment details—especially if they’ve changed.
- Phone Scams: A caller claims to be from your bank, the ATO, or a government agency, pressuring you to act quickly. Hang up and call back using a trusted number.
- Investment Scams: Promises of high returns on agricultural investments or land deals. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Romance or Relationship Scams: Scammers build trust online, then ask for money. Be cautious with anyone you meet on social media or dating platforms.
How to Stay Safe
- Verify before you pay: Always confirm payment details with a known contact, especially for large transactions.
- Don’t share personal info: Never give out banking details, passwords, or verification codes over the phone or email.
- Use secure connections: Avoid making financial transactions over public Wi-Fi.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from Scamwatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au) and your bank.
We're here to help
Need help with a security concern? Contact our support team for assistance with suspicious activity, account protection, or security-related enquiries.
The information contained on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Rabobank does not accept any liability for loss or damage arising from reliance on the content of this page. If you suspect you have been the victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately. We may not be able to assist you if you are not a Rabobank customer. We do not represent, warrant or guarantee that we will be able to recover lost funds.