In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of cryptocurrency exchanges and accounts to commit fraud and scams. In line with many major banks in Australia, Geelong Bank is introducing new measures as an extra layer of Member protection.
Scams can take many forms. Members may not realise they are transferring money to crypto accounts as they may be portrayed as another type of investment. Alternatively, Members may be aware they are transferring money to a crypto account, but they are tricked into believing it is for a legitimate purpose. Banks without extra protections can be labelled as "crypto friendly", leading to greater risk of Members being targeted by crypto-based scams and fraud.