0485 863 850 - Scam: Debt Collection Spoofing Scheme

• Scam
• Suspicious
• Uncertain

0485 863 850 has been reported by users as a scam number related to a fraudulent debt collection scheme. Find out how to handle calls from this number and protect your personal information.

Understanding the Calls from 0485 863 850

The number 0485 863 850 / 0485863850 has recently raised significant red flags among Australians, with multiple user reports categorising it as a scam associated with a debt collection scheme. Many individuals who have received calls from this number describe interactions that hint at deceptive practices typically employed by unscrupulous debt collectors.

Classification of the Number

Based on user analyses, 0485 863 850 / 0485863850 is classified clearly as a scam due to its affiliation with debt collection operations that have been implicated in fraudulent activities. The users delineated various characteristics of the calls:

• Claiming to Represent “A Company in Brisbane”: Several callers report that the individual on the line claimed to be from a Brisbane-based company, which raised initial suspicions.
• Suspicious Call Behaviour: Instances of 'spoofing' were noted, where the call initiated another call as soon as it was answered, signalling a deceptive tactic often employed to confuse and intimidate victims.
• Connections to Panthera Finance: Users indicated the number is likely tied to Panthera Finance, a debt collection agency known for aggressive and potentially coercive collection practices.
• Reference Numbers and Callback Requests: Reported voicemails from this number were described as leaving reference numbers along with another contact number for the recipient to call back—103 state that this is a common trick to lure individuals into providing personal or financial information.

How to Handle Calls from 0485 863 850

If you receive a call from 0485 863 850 / 0485863850, it is advised to treat it with caution:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid giving out any personal information. Legitimate debt collectors will not pressure you for immediate payment over the phone.
• Verify the Caller: Research the debt collection agency via reliable sources or platforms such as Reverseau. Confirm the legitimacy of the number independently. Never trust the number presented during the call.
• Report the Number: In case of ongoing harassment or aggressive tactics, report the number to local authorities or the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
• Consider Blocking: If the calls persist after your initial defence, you may consider blocking the number or screening your calls in the future.

In essence, let the red flags that accompany 0485 863 850 / 0485863850 guide your actions. Regularly using services like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can help identify suspicious numbers, protecting you from potential scams. Stay vigilant against fraudulent calls and safeguard your personal information effectively.