You may have heard the term “Remote Access Scam” multiple times over the last few years. With so many advances in technology, this type of scam has increased across the industry, with hundreds of millions of dollars lost each year by hard-working Australians to them. But, do you really know what a RAT scam is? Let’s take a further look.

A Remote Access Tool (RAT) is a type of software or app that, once downloaded, allows other users to remotely connect to your device. Usually, someone will contact you initially by phone, SMS or email, claiming to be from a technology-based business, or sometimes even from the bank itself.

They may tell you that there is “something wrong” with your device and ask you to download an app or program (the remote access tool or RAT) to access your device and help you fix the issue.

They may ask you for your personal banking details and or personal identity details or request to view or control your internet banking session while you are making a payment for their “services” or suggest you buy their own software.

This way they can attempt to, or actually capture, your information to defraud you and your accounts.

Thousands of people fall victim to Remote Access Scams each year, so it's important to stay alert.

If you suspect you're talking to a scammer:

  • Do not give out any banking or personal information – this includes your internet banking details, card details, one time password, or identity information such as your drivers licence or passport details.
  • Do not download the remote access tool (or any other app) if it is requested by the caller.
  • Hang up the phone or cease corresponding via SMS or email immediately.

If you suspect you have fallen victim to a scammer:

  • Cease all contact with the suspected scammer immediately and do not re-engage with them, if they attempt to make additional contact with you.
  • Contact Queensland Country Bank as soon as possible and provide us as much detail as you can, on your interactions with the suspected scammer. Keep any correspondence you have with the person/s.
  • Visit an IT Specialist to have all devices cleaned, that may have been compromised with a remote access tool or possible malware. We'll need confirmation that this action has been taken before reinstating online banking access, to minimise the chances of any further losses.

Get to know the different types of scams and how to protect yourself. Visit our Fraud and Scams hub and always remember - if it's too good to be true, it probably is.