Anti-Scam Academy

The online world can feel like a minefield when it comes to keeping your money safe, but Westpac’s dynamic CVC (Card Verification Value) is here to make life a little easier—and way more secure. Let’s dive into what this is and how it can help you dodge scams!

What’s a Dynamic CVC?

Basically, it’s a security code that changes every 24 hours. Unlike the code printed on the back of your physical card, this one keeps switching up its digits, making it almost impossible for scammers to use. You can grab the updated code from your Westpac app or online banking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for online shopping or setting up subscriptions.

Why It’s a Game Changer

• **Super Secure**: Since the code changes daily, fraudsters are left scratching their heads if they get hold of your card details.
• **Proven Protection**: Westpac customers using dynamic CVCs have seen fraud drop by a whopping 80%—that’s some serious peace of mind.
• **Hassle-free**: It fits right into your routine, so you don’t have to sacrifice convenience for security.

Staying Scam-Savvy

While the dynamic CVC is a fantastic shield, there are more ways to stay safe online:

• **Double-check requests**: If someone’s asking for your details out of the blue, don’t fall for it.
• **Stay updated**: Keeping your apps and devices current helps patch up vulnerabilities.
• **Watch your transactions**: Spot anything weird on your bank statement?

• **Use two-factor authentication**: Add an extra layer of defense to your accounts, if possible.

Wrap-Up

Westpac’s dynamic CVCs are proof that banks are stepping up their security game. Pairing this innovation with smart habits can make online scams a thing of the past for you. At the end of the day, staying informed and proactive is your best bet for keeping your finances safe.

Got this? Great—now you can shop, pay, and surf online with confidence. Stay secure!

What is it?

Scammers are running a big SMS campaign in NZ at the moment, trying to trick people with offers for cheap Lotto tickets or flashy items like new smartphones. While the text itself might not mention Lotto, clicking the link will take you to a slick-looking website selling discounted Lotto tickets.

Once you’re there, the site asks you a few questions and then hits you up for your credit card info. If you hand it over, the scammers might rack up charges on your card or sell your details to others.

What to watch for:

• These scam texts are sneaky—they’re personalised, often using your name, and talk about competitions, parcel tracking, or other random stuff with a weird link attached.
• Be on the lookout for anything unexpected, out of the ordinary, or that just feels off.
• Never click on links in messages coming from unknown sources, no matter how legit they seem.

If you think the message might be real, always double-check with the company directly through their official website or contact details. For example, if it’s about Lotto, get in touch with Lotto NZ through their official channels to confirm. Better safe than sorry!

The Microsoft tech support scam is basically a trick where scammers pretend to be from Microsoft to mess with you. They might call you out of the blue, or a scary pop-up might show up on your screen saying there’s something seriously wrong with your computer—like a virus or some critical error.

The goal? They’ll either try to get you to pay for fake “fixes” or convince you to give them access to your computer so they can steal personal stuff, mess with your files, or even plant malware.

The main thing to remember:

• Microsoft isn’t going to randomly call you or send you messages about fixing your computer.
• Real error messages from them won’t include a phone number or link to call or click.
• If something seems fishy, just don’t engage. Close the pop-up, hang up, and don’t share any info.

Stay sharp and don’t let them pull a fast one on you! If you’re ever unsure, it’s better to double-check through official Microsoft channels.

Scammers are out there, trying all kinds of tricks, but we’ve got your back. We’re excited to introduce the Anti-Scam Center, a place designed to help YOU and our entire community stay one step ahead of scammers.

Here’s what we’re all about:

• Simple Guides: Easy tips and examples to help you figure out what’s legit and what’s not.
• Quick Tools: Not sure about an email, text, or website? Use our tools to double-check before clicking or replying.
• Expert Advice: Stay in the loop on the latest scams and how to avoid them, straight from the pros.

We built this with you in mind—because everyone deserves to feel safe online. Together, we can outsmart the scammers and keep our community protected.

Check out the Anti-Scam Center today and let’s beat the scammers together. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back!