0435 786 368: Suspicious SMS Scamming Attempt

• Scam

The phone number 0435 786 368 has been reported as sending suspicious text messages related to a PayPal scam. Learn how to identify and handle such messages safely.

The phone number 0435 786 368 has caught the attention of users across Australia due to a series of reports linking it to potential scam activities. In an increasingly digital world, it's vital to stay informed about such threats, which can often originate from seemingly legitimate phone numbers.

Based on user feedback, this number is classified as suspicious, with indications pointing towards a phishing scam. A notable report from 06 April 2023 detailed a text message that mimicked an official PayPal communication. The message stated: “PayPaI.999801 Is your One time Password (OTP) to send 2000.00 AUD... If you do not authorize, call +61-1800296902 to.Cancel the Transaction.” This alarming scenario is a classic attempt by scammers to exploit user trust and manipulate them into providing sensitive information or authorising a transaction.

This type of scam, often described as SMS phishing or "smishing," typically involves the scammer posing as a reputable service to elicit personal details. In this case, the use of a well-known company like PayPal lends a false legitimacy to the operation, aiming to coerce the recipient into taking hasty action regarding their financial security.

To protect yourself from such scams, consider these tips:

• Do not click on links or call numbers provided in unsolicited texts.
• Verify the sender's number through a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia tool to check if it has been reported previously.
• If in doubt, contact the service provider directly using official contact details. Do not use any information provided in the suspicious text.
• Report the number to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) to help combat these illicit practices.

As much as technology enhances communication, these fraudulent tactics become sophisticated threats that require vigilance. Always trust your instinct when something feels off, and remember, awareness is the first step toward safeguarding yourself against scammers lurking behind the screens.