Skip to main content
Financial Assistance Hub

Don’t get more than you bargained for this Black Friday

Don’t get more than you bargained for this Black Friday

27 November 2024

Shoppers on the hunt for a bargain during the Black Friday sales period are being warned to be on high alert for scams.

The Australian Banking Association is reminding shoppers to be on the lookout for popular scams that are circulating:

  • Buying and selling scams – Scammers create websites that closely mirror legitimate sites to deceive people into fake purchases.
  • Parcel tracking scams – Fake parcel notifications sent via text message or email tricking people into sharing personal or financial information.

ABA CEO Anna Bligh said scam activity always surges during the Black Friday sales period and scammers will use every trick in the book to steal money from shoppers.

“Shoppers should be on high alert this Black Friday that the deal you’re getting might be too good to be true.” Ms Bligh said.

“While you’re on the lookout for a good deal, be careful you don’t get more than you bargained for.

“Black Friday is an opportune time for scammers and they are out in force trying to steal your hard-earned money.

“Be aware of shonky websites imitating popular brands and fake parcel notifications sent via text or email asking you to share personal information.

“It pays to double check that the website you are buying from is legitimate, to ensure you get what you purchased.

Ms Bligh said banks have put in extra safeguards in place to protect customers under the industry’s world-leading Scam-Safe Accord.

“Banks are deploying a range of tools to protect customers such as confirmation of payee technology, more payment warnings and delays, identity checks and enhanced intelligence sharing.”

For more information on scam warning signs, please visit: https://www.ausbanking.org.au/scams-hear-the-alarm-bells/

Contact: Benn Ayre | [email protected] | 0428 342 325
Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | www.ausbanking.org.au

Latest news

1 / 3
Media Releases
Mid-sized banks set to benefit from APRA’s move to streamline IRB accreditation
23 October 2025

The ABA welcomes APRA’s proposals to make the internal ratings-based (IRB) accreditation process simpler and more transparent, giving mid-sized banks a competitive boost. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the changes would support competition and deliver better outcomes for customers. “This is a practical and sensible pro‑competition step from APRA,” Mr Birmingham said. “When fully implemented,… Read more »

Read more
Transcript
ABA CEO interview on Sky News Afternoon Agenda with Cheng Lei
17 October 2025

E&OEInterview on Sky News with Cheng Lei Cheng Lei: Australian banks closed 155 branches over the last year, but the rate of closures has slowed. For the implications, let’s bring in Australian Banking Association Chief Executive and former Liberal Minister Simon Birmingham. Mr Birmingham, welcome to the show – great to talk to you in… Read more »

Read more
Media Releases
Banks welcome focus on reducing regulatory burden
17 October 2025

Australian banks welcome the Federal Government’s release of an updated Regulatory Initiatives Grid, helping to ensure there is more transparency and coordination when new financial rules are introduced. The ABA particularly welcomes new principles that streamline coordination between regulators, reducing duplication and regulatory burden across the industry. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the Grid was… Read more »

Read more