Is this text or call from Bank of Queensland a scam?
Banks are the most impersonated organisations in Australian scams, and Bank of Queensland is no exception. A text, email or phone call that looks like it's from Bank of Queensland can be genuine — but it can just as easily be a scam built to look identical. The good news: a few quick checks almost always tell a real Bank of Queensland message from a fake.
Genuine Bank of Queensland links only ever go to boq.com.au. Below is exactly what a real Bank of Queensland message looks like, the scams currently circulating in its name, the red flags that give a fake away, and a real example to compare against. Got a message in front of you? Check it now for an instant verdict.
What a real Bank of Queensland message looks like
Genuine messages from Bank of Queensland only ever link to boq.com.au.
- Genuine Bank of Queensland emails always come from an @boq.com.au address.
- BOQ never asks customers to click links or enter login details via SMS.
- The bank does not send urgent SMS messages threatening to lock accounts.
- Official BOQ communications use consistent branding and never direct customers to third-party domains.
- BOQ alerts about transactions or account changes are usually sent through the BOQ app or secure online banking, not random SMS.
Crucially, Bank of Queensland will never ask you to move money to a 'safe account', read out a one-time SMS code, or install remote-access software like AnyDesk or TeamViewer.
Common Bank of Queensland scams
- SMS messages claiming to be from BOQ that contain a link to a fake login page at a lookalike domain such as boq-secure-login.com.
- Texts warning of suspicious activity or a blocked card that urge the recipient to verify details immediately.
- Messages pretending to be a BOQ fraud team asking the customer to confirm their password or card number on a provided link.
Red flags to watch for
- The message asks for login details, passwords or card numbers.
- The SMS contains a shortened or unfamiliar link instead of directing you to type boq.com.au yourself.
- The message creates urgency by threatening immediate account lock or loss of funds.
- Sender ID is a random phone number or an unrecognised name rather than a verified BOQ channel.
- The email or SMS contains spelling errors or poor formatting.
Scam text examples
Here's a real example of a scam message impersonating Bank of Queensland, with the tell-tale red flags highlighted. Compare it against anything you've received.
Bank of Queensland: We've detected unusual activity on your account. To prevent a hold, please verify your details now: https://boq-secure-login.com/verify
What gives it away:
- The message asks for login details, passwords or card numbers.
- The SMS contains a shortened or unfamiliar link instead of directing you to type boq.com.au yourself.
- The message creates urgency by threatening immediate account lock or loss of funds.
- Sender ID is a random phone number or an unrecognised name rather than a verified BOQ channel.
- The email or SMS contains spelling errors or poor formatting.
Not sure about your message?
Paste the suspicious Bank of Queensland text or email and get an instant scam verdict, free.
How to verify a message from Bank of Queensland
- Type boq.com.au directly into your browser and log in via the official site or BOQ app.
- Use the contact details listed inside your BOQ app or on statements you already hold.
Where to report a scam impersonating Bank of Queensland
Received — or fell for — a message impersonating Bank of Queensland? Report it. It helps authorities and carriers shut the campaign down for everyone who gets the next one.
- Scamwatch — Report the scam to the ACCC's national scam service.
- ReportCyber — Report cybercrime and financial loss to the police.
- ACMA — Report scam texts and spam SMS or calls.
- Forward to 7226 (SPAM) — Forward the scam SMS to short code 7226 so your carrier can block the source.
- IDCARE — Free identity and cyber support if your details were taken.
Frequently asked questions
I got a text from Bank of Queensland with a link — is it a scam?
Bank of Queensland never asks for login details or account verification via SMS links. If you received such a message, delete it and report it at scamwatch.gov.au.
How do I know if a BOQ SMS is real?
Genuine BOQ messages do not contain clickable links asking for your details. Always go directly to boq.com.au or open the official app instead of clicking anything in the text.
What should I do if I clicked a fake BOQ link?
Change your BOQ password immediately from the official boq.com.au site, monitor your accounts, and contact IDCARE on 1300 432 273 for free support.
Related scam types
Scams impersonating Bank of Queensland usually fit one of these patterns. Learn how each works:
Related brands
Other bank names scammers impersonate — check a message from one:
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — always verify with Bank of Queensland through an official channel.