Scam emails

There are over 300 billion emails circulated around the world every day, offering scammers countless opportunities for email fraud.

Things to look out for

Sophisticated scammers can mimic a wide range of organisations. But even high-quality scam emails can be identified by keeping a few key details in mind.

Showing of

Does the spelling and grammar look off?

Even if the design of the email makes it look legitimate, keeping an eye out for strange wording can be very helpful.

If an email contains obvious bad spelling and grammar, there’s a good chance it’s fraudulent.

Does the sender’s email address look strange?

Check if an email is genuine by looking at the email address it was sent from. Spam email addresses may look normal, but a closer look can often reveal small differences.

Example of Suncorp Network email addresses
Example of fraudulent Suncorp email addresses

Were you expecting an email?

Spam emails can show concerning information about lapsed policies or payment details.

If your policy and/or payment details are up-to-date and an email suggests otherwise, don’t click any links. If you’re concerned, it never hurts to contact your insurer, just to make sure.

Who is the email addressed to?

Emails with generic salutations (such as an email addressing you only as “customer”) asking for personal information should always be avoided.

Any official communications from your insurer will always be addressed to you, but it’s always worth considering a few of these other questions before you assume that the email is legitimate.

Does the email look a little off?

"Phishing” involves scammers attempting to replicate your insurer’s branding and colours to trick you into entering important personal information.

If something isn’t formatted consistently, or the colours and design don’t look quite right, it may be a phishing attempt. If you’re unsure, try comparing a suspicious email to legitimate emails from your insurer.

Are you being asked to enter personal details?

Phishing emails can also encourage you to visit an external webpage and enter your details.

This webpage may appear identical to a page on your insurer’s site, but the fields used to input information are used to steal your details. Check the URL in the web address bar to double-check you’re on the right site.

Was the email forwarded by someone you know?

Scammers can use the email address of someone you know to hide a virus or malicious email. If you recognise the sender but the content of the email raises questions, contact them before you open it.

Can I access this in a legitimate way?

If you’re concerned about an issue related to your account, contact your insurer directly or use trusted links to log into your account online.

Even if there’s a link in an email that appears genuine, avoid clicking on it. It may be used to hide a malicious link that takes you to a fraudulent site.