0414 731 185 - Scam Alert: Fraudulent Call from Commonwealth Bank

• Scam

The number 0414 731 185 has been reported as a fraudulent call claiming to be from Commonwealth Bank. Learn how to handle such calls and protect yourself from scams.

Is 0414 731 185 / 0414731185 a Scam?

The phone number 0414 731 185 / 0414731185 has raised red flags among users who have reported it as a scam. Specifically, it is associated with an automated caller claiming to be “Brenda” from Commonwealth Bank, warning recipients about suspicious purchases involving bitcoin on their accounts. Such messages are often indicative of phishing scams, where scammers attempt to extract personal and financial information under the guise of a legitimate bank notification.

Understanding the Scam

This type of scam is commonly referred to as a “vishing” attempt, which stands for voice phishing. Scammers employ technology to mimic legitimate banking practices, creating an illusion of security to trick callers into divulging sensitive information such as account numbers, PINs, or other personal details. Despite sounding convincing, the call is fraudulent, and Commonwealth Bank has not initiated any communication of this nature in this context.

Identifying Legitimate Communications from Banks

Legitimate financial institutions, including Commonwealth Bank, often communicate vital information to customers using formal methods. Here are some tips to identify genuine bank calls:

• Always confirm through official communication channels. Do not trust numbers displayed on your caller ID; they can be spoofed.

• Never provide personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call and know you are speaking with a representative of your bank.

• If a call seems suspicious or unsolicited, hang up and contact your bank directly using the number on their official website.

What to Do If You Receive a Call from 0414 731 185

If you receive a call from this number, it is best to take the following steps:

• Do not engage with the caller. Hang up immediately to prevent any disclosure of personal information.

• Report the number to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the Australian Cyber Security Centre.

• Consider blocking the number to prevent future contact.

In the digital age, being vigilant about potential scams is crucial for protecting your personal and financial information. With services such as Reverseau, you can conduct a Reverse Phone Lookup in Australia to quickly understand who called you and confirm whether the call was legitimate.