Bank highlights rising risks as scam tactics evolve
National Australia Bank (NAB) has called on mortgage brokers and small business owners to increase their vigilance against scams, as fraudulent activity becomes more advanced.
The bank is inviting industry professionals to participate in NAB’s Big Scam Education Conversation, a free online session scheduled for Tuesday.
The 45-minute webinar, part of Scams Awareness Week, will focus on practical strategies to identify and prevent scams. The session for businesses will begin at 10am and will address current scam trends including phishing, remote access, and invoice fraud. Scamwatch data shows that false billing was the most frequently reported scam affecting small businesses in 2024.
A separate session aimed at the general public will take place at 2pm, offering advice on how individuals can protect themselves and their families.
Registration for the webinar is available at the NAB website. Scams Awareness Week, led by the National Anti-Scam Centre, runs from Aug. 25 to 29.
Eligible NAB small business customers are also able to use resources such as a complimentary Microsoft Cyber Security Assessment tool and a free 12-month subscription to CrowdStrike cyber security software.
“Scams can be devastating for brokers and small businesses,” said Adam Brown (pictured right), broker distribution executive at NAB.
“Criminals are increasingly using sophisticated technology and we’re seeing new tactics like AI emerge. Continued education is vital as scams always evolve. By learning how to recognise the red flags, brokers can protect themselves and their customers.”
NAB has reported that its interventions in the past year have helped customers avoid more than $170 million in potential scam losses. The bank provides brokers with access to educational materials through its Business Security Hub, supporting both their own operations and their clients.
“Customers turn to brokers as trusted advisers, and by proactively helping customers learn how to recognise and prevent scams, they can make a big impact,” Brown said. “Education is the first line of defence, and through NAB’s Business Security Hub, brokers can access educational resources to help protect their own businesses and support their customers.”
Want to be regularly updated with mortgage news and features? Get exclusive interviews, breaking news, and industry events in your inbox – subscribe to our FREE daily newsletter. You can also follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.
