0455 139 861: Scam Alert - Impersonation of Commonwealth Bank

• Scam
• Spam

Beware of phone number 0455 139 861, which has been reported as a scam. This article provides insights on handling calls and texts from this number, known for impersonating Commonwealth Bank and sending phishing links.

Understanding the Threat of 0455 139 861

In the digital age, scams have proliferated, and 0455 139 861 / 0455139861 is a prime example of a number that users need to be cautious about. Reportedly used for scams, particularly involving impersonation of the Commonwealth Bank (CommBank), this number has raised alarm bells among Australians.

Scam Analysis

Users' reports clearly identify 0455 139 861 / 0455139861 as a sender of fraudulent messages that pretend to be from CommBank, claiming users’ bank access has been restricted. The unsolicited texts often include links purportedly leading to security verification pages, which are actually designed to harvest personal information. A significant red flag observed in the reviews is the insistence by the scammer to click on links, despite the recipients not having any accounts with CommBank.

Moreover, there are claims regarding disruption of service that suggest links to other service providers, such as a text about a failed recharge related to Singtel (Optus), making it clear that the scammers may switch tactics to appear more credible. This type of scam, commonly referred to as phishing, is aimed at tricking unsuspecting users into providing sensitive information.

Classification of 0455 139 861

Based on the user reviews, 0455 139 861 / 0455139861 can be classified as:

• Spam: The number persistently reaches out to users without consent, making it an unwanted source of communication.
• Scam: The impersonation of a legitimate institution, namely CommBank, raises significant concerns and recommendations suggest treating all communications from this number as potential threats.

How to Handle Calls and Texts from 0455 139 861

If you receive a message or call from this number, do not interact with it—avoid clicking on any links or providing personal information. Here are some key steps to follow:

• Do not respond: Ignoring the communication is the safest course of action.
• Report the number: Notify your phone service provider and report the number to Scamwatch.
• Educate others: Share your experience with friends and family to raise awareness.

For additional security, consider using services like Reverseau and Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to verify unknown numbers. This approach can further safeguard against scams like those initiated by 0455 139 861 / 0455139861. Trust in your instincts, and always verify before you act on unsolicited communications.