02 9403 6998: Scam – Impersonating Commonwealth Bank Fraud Department

• Suspicious

Discover why 02 9403 6998 is marked as a scam phone number impersonating Commonwealth Bank's fraud department. Learn how to handle suspicious calls effectively.

Is 02 9403 6998 / 0294036998 a Scam?

The phone number 02 9403 6998 / 0294036998 has been reported by users as a scam, specifically impersonating the Commonwealth Bank’s fraud department. This form of deceit typically aims to trick unsuspecting individuals into providing personal information or financial details by posing as a legitimate and trusted institution.

Reports Indicating Fraud

Users have shared their experiences regarding this number, notably one report from 12 November 2022, which highlighted that the caller claimed to represent the Commonwealth Bank's fraud division. A crucial red flag was raised by the individual who reported it, as they do not even hold an account with Commonwealth Bank. This suggests that the caller was attempting to solicit sensitive data from an unsuspecting target by using a generic approach.

Understanding the Scam Type

This scam falls under "phishing" attacks, where fraudsters impersonate a legitimate organisation to lure individuals into divulging personal details. The caller typically creates a sense of urgency around fraud alerts, which can significantly increase the victim's odds of complying without a second thought.

How to Handle Suspicious Calls

• Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from this number or any number claiming to be from a legitimate financial institution, avoid engaging with the caller.
• Verify the Caller: Hang up, and independently call the official customer service number of the institution they claim to represent.
• Report the Scam: Notify Consumer Affairs or report the number to Reverseau and similar platforms to prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.
• Monitor Your Accounts: Always keep an eye on your bank accounts and report any suspicious transactions to your bank immediately.

Conclusion

The number 02 9403 6998 / 0294036998 is clearly a fraudulent attempt to impersonate the Commonwealth Bank’s fraud department. Awareness and vigilance are paramount to avoid falling victims to such scams. Always remember to verify unknown callers, particularly when the conversation pivots towards personal or financial information. By doing so, you can protect yourself from the constantly evolving world of phone scams.