Impersonation Scams
Authority Impersonation
Authority impersonation scams begin with scammers contacting victims pretending to be a trusted authority figure, such as a government agency, law enforcement, utility provider or other official organisation.
They may claim there is a serious issue that needs immediate attention, such as unpaid fines, secret investigations, legal or immigration action.
The scammer relies on fear and trust in authority to pressure the victim into sending money or sharing personal information.
Here’s how to spot the red flags:
Unexpected Contact
Be cautious of unsolicited calls, SMS or emails claiming to be from an authority or official organisation.
Scammers often contact you out of the blue and may use spoofed phone numbers or email addresses to appear legitimate.
Sense of Urgency
Scammers will create pressure by stating the matter is urgent or that immediate action is required to avoid penalties, account suspension or legal consequences.
It’s important to pause and independently verify the request using trusted contact details before taking any action.
If you suspect you've been scammed, contact ME immediately 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 13 15 63
Friends and Family Impersonation
Family impersonation scams often begin with fraudsters contacting victims, claiming to be a family member in distress.
They may say they are in an emergency situation and need urgent financial help.
The victim, wanting to help their loved one, sends money to the scammer. The scammer exploits the victim's emotions to extract money.
Here’s how to spot the red flags:
Unexpected Contact
Be cautious of sudden SMS, email or phone calls claiming to be a family member or friend. Often the message will come from an unknown number with excuses such as they "broke their phone" and are contacting from a friends.
Sense of Urgency
Scammers will try to pressure you to act quickly and that the request for funds is urgent. Its crucial you pause and take the time to verify the request is genuine before sending any funds.
If you suspect you've been scammed, contact ME immediately 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 13 15 63
Bank Impersonation Scam
This scam usually starts with scammers contacting victims, pretending to be representatives from a bank.
They claim there are issues with the victim's accounts, suspicious transactions on their card or other issues that need immediately remedy.
The victim is tricked into providing sensitive information or transferring money to resolve the supposed issue.
Here’s how to spot the red flags:
Unexpected Contact
Be cautious of all calls claiming to be from ME or other banks. Scammers often contact customers out of the blue and may claim they are calling from a fraud, security or support team.
You can always verify any contact from ME by calling our trusted and verified number.
Sense of Urgency
Scammers commonly create pressure by saying you must act immediately. They may threaten account restrictions, loss of funds or claim a transaction is about to be processed unless you respond straight away.
This urgency is designed to stop you from thinking clearly or verifying the contact through official channels.
Claims your account is at risk
You may be told there is suspicious activity, an unauthorised transaction, or a security breach on your account. While these claims can sound convincing and alarming, they are often used to gain your trust and prompt you to share personal or banking details.
Always remember — if you’re unsure, hang up and contact ME directly using a trusted number.
Requests for verification codes or ‘proof’
Scammers may ask you to share one‑time passwords (OTPs), security codes sent to your phone, or other “proof” to verify your identity or secure your account.
They might even say these codes are needed to stop fraud. ME will never ask you to share verification codes, passwords or login details — even if the request appears urgent.
If you suspect you've been scammed, contact ME immediately 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 13 15 63