Recognise the common approaches
Super scams often begin with an unsolicited call, message, social-media advertisement or online comparison form. The contact may offer a free review, guaranteed returns, a special investment or early access. Urgency and insider language are used to make verification feel unnecessary.
Another pattern is identity theft. A caller who knows your name, employer or balance may still be a criminal using leaked data. MyGov passwords, one-time codes, identity documents and remote access to your device can let someone change account details or move money.
Use a safe verification routine
Stop the conversation and contact the organisation independently using a saved app, a statement or a government website you typed yourself. Search the ASIC professional registers for advisers and licence details, then call the licensee using independently sourced contact information.
Use unique passwords and multi-factor authentication, secure the email account connected to your fund and review transaction and contact-detail alerts. Do not let anyone rush you through a rollover or ask you to hide the purpose from the fund.
Act quickly if something looks wrong
Contact the fund’s fraud team immediately if you see an unknown rollover, withdrawal, bank-account change or login. Change compromised passwords from a clean device and contact myGov, the ATO, your bank and IDCARE as relevant. Keep screenshots, phone numbers and transaction details.
Report investment and impersonation scams to Scamwatch and police where appropriate. Quick reporting may help stop a transfer, but recovery is not guaranteed. Shame and delay benefit the scammer; neither is a reason to wait.
Quick reference
Key things to remember
- Use a unique password and multifactor authentication.
- Check contact details and login history where available.
- Navigate to fund and government sites independently.
- Be wary of cold calls, social ads and promises of guaranteed returns.
Put it into practice
Your next steps
- 01
End the call or message.
- 02
Find the organisation’s official number yourself.
- 03
Check adviser details on the ASIC register.
- 04
Report identity theft or suspicious account changes immediately.
Check the source
Official information
Super and tax rules change. These primary sources are the right place to verify the details before you act.