Overview of 02 8003 5157
The phone number 02 8003 5157 / 0280035157 has gained notoriety in Australia for being linked to multiple scams, particularly impersonating financial institutions. User reports indicate a pattern of deceptive behaviour, primarily aimed at obtaining sensitive personal information and manipulating individuals for monetary gain.
Classification and User Reports
Based on the reviews collected from various users, it is clear that 02 8003 5157 / 0280035157 operates under a scam category. Users have described experiences that confirm the following characteristics:
- Impersonation of Financial Institutions: A review from 22 March 2023 called out the number for claiming to represent ING Bank and requested credit card details for an alleged payment. Such tactics are commonplace in phishing scams, where scammers create a sense of urgency to elicit sensitive information.
- Classic Scam Techniques: A user reported on 16 June 2019 that the call exhibited a typical scam delay, known as the “scam pause,” where the caller deliberately allows an awkward silence, giving the illusion of legitimacy as they connect from their end. This technique is designed to confuse and disarm the recipient before delivering their scam message.
- Harassment: A more alarming report from 20 July 2024 revealed that callers showed up unannounced at an individual’s residence demanding money, a tactic that indicates a possible escalation in their deceptive practices.
How to Handle Calls from 02 8003 5157
If you receive a call from this number, it is imperative to recognise it as a scam and take the following actions:
- Do Not Engage: If you suspect a scammer on the line, hang up immediately. Engaging could lead to further attempts at manipulation.
- Block the Number: To prevent future communications, use your phone’s settings to block this number from contacting you again.
- Report the Incident: Report the number to appropriate authorities such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or your bank, especially if any personal information has already been shared.
- Stay Informed: Utilizing tools like Reverseau can help you conduct a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to identify suspicious numbers before answering calls in the future.
In summary, 02 8003 5157 / 0280035157 is associated with scams designed to exploit individuals' trust and manipulate their financial security. Always be vigilant and remember – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.