0420 765 857: Scam alert - Fraud and Security Impersonation

Recognising the Scam: 0420 765 857

The phone number 0420 765 857 / 0420765857 has recently gained attention for its suspicious nature. Classified as a scam, this number has been attributed to a caller impersonating a fraud and security official. Reports indicate that the representative on the other end of the line claimed to be affiliated with the Department of Visa and Mastercard—a department that, notably, does not exist.

Understanding the Impersonation Scam

Impersonation scams are prevalent where fraudsters pose as legitimate entities to extract sensitive information or money. In this case, the tactic employed included invoking the authority of a fictitious department, which is a common strategy used by scammers to create a sense of urgency and legitimacy.

What to Do If You Receive a Call from This Number

• Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from this number, do not engage with the caller. Hang up immediately.
• Block the Number: Use your phone's blocking feature to prevent future calls from 0420 765 857 / 0420765857.
• Report the Scam: Notify relevant authorities about the attempted scam, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or Scamwatch, to help protect others.
• Stay Informed: Utilise Reverse AU or similar services for a Reverse Phone Lookup in Australia to verify unknown callers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 0420 765 857 / 0420765857 is an example of a malicious scam operation aiming to impersonate a government department for fraudulent purposes. Always remain cautious when receiving calls from numbers that claim to be affiliated with official entities and trust your instincts when something feels off. Protect your personal information and treat suspicious calls with scepticism.