0406 416 311 - Scam Alert: Commonwealth Bank Phishing Attempt

• Scam

Beware of the number 0406 416 311, reported by users as a phishing scam targeting Commonwealth Bank customers. Learn how to identify the signs of a scam and protect your personal information.

Understanding the Scam Behind 0406 416 311

The number 0406 416 311 / 0406416311 has been reported numerous times by users as a suspicious contact linked to a phishing scam. The messages sent from this number predominantly claim to be from Commonwealth Bank, suggesting the recipient’s account has been locked and directing them to a fraudulent link for verification.

Decoding the Scam

Based on various reports, it is evident that these SMS communications leverage a common phishing tactic. Victims are warned about their accounts being locked, which is designed to instil panic and urgency, prompting individuals to act hastily. Here’s how this scam generally unfolds:

• Messages Received: Users report receiving texts declaring their Commonwealth Bank accounts are locked and requesting them to click a link to resolve the issue.
• Identities Masqueraded: The number impersonates legitimate banking correspondence, exploiting trust and familiarity with the bank's communication style.
• Consequences of Engagement: If the recipient clicks on the link, it typically leads to a fraudulent website designed to harvest personal banking details, leaving victims at significant risk of identity theft.

How to Handle Calls and Messages from This Number

If you receive a message from 0406 416 311 / 0406416311, follow these safety tips:

• Do Not Click Links: Never click on hyperlinks in unsolicited messages, especially when they claim to be from your bank.
• Verify Independently: Contact your bank directly through official channels to check if there are any issues with your account.
• Report Scams: If you suspect you've received a scam message, report it to the authorities and consider informing your bank.

Conclusion

In summary, 0406 416 311 / 0406416311 is not a legitimate number and is classified as a scam, specifically an attempt to phish for personal banking information under the pretext of account security. Users are strongly advised to remain vigilant and to employ services like Reverseau or a reverse phone lookup in Australia to identify unknown numbers and protect themselves from similar scams in the future.