02 8006 7474: Scam SMS Claiming to Be CommBank

• Scam

The phone number 02 8006 7474 has been reported as a scam, with users receiving fraudulent messages impersonating CommBank. Find out how to handle calls from this number and protect yourself.

Understanding the Risks Associated with 02 8006 7474

The phone number 02 8006 7474 / 0280067474 has emerged as a fraudulent entity among Australian users. Multiple reports have classified this number as associated with a scam, specifically aimed at impersonating the Commonwealth Bank (CommBank). It’s crucial to comprehend how scammers operate and what steps you should take to protect yourself from potential fraud.

Nature of the Scam

Users have reported receiving deceptive SMS messages that claim to be from CommBank. One such message, dated 01/08/2023, purportedly informed the recipient of an unauthorised transaction and stated, “Your security code is 684956 for a TRANSACTION of 700.00 AUD to AIRBNB LTD.” This message concluded with an instruction to call the number 02 8006 7474 / 0280067474 for verification. The alarming nature of the message, combined with its appeal to urgency, is a hallmark of phishing scams designed to panic victims into revealing personal information or transferring money.

Reason for Classification as a Scam

The deceptive tactics used in this instance firmly categorize this number as a scam. A few points substantiate this classification:

• Impersonation: The message falsely claimed to be from a reputable bank, leveraging accommodation services to create a sense of legitimacy.
• Urgency: The inclusion of a security threat and transaction details aims to provoke an immediate emotional response.
• Lack of association: As noted in the review, the recipient didn't have an account with CommBank, reinforcing the fraudulent nature of the communication.

How to Handle Calls from This Number

If you receive a call or message from 02 8006 7474 / 0280067474, do not engage with the caller or reply to the SMS. Follow these precautionary measures:

• Do not provide any personal information, financial details, or security codes.
• Report the number to Scamwatch or the relevant authorities, assisting in efforts to curtail fraudulent activities.
• Consider performing a reverse phone lookup with services like Reverseau to gather information on the caller's authenticity and to see if the number has been reported previously.

Staying informed is your best defence against these types of scams. Always double-check suspicious communications and verify with legitimate institutions directly via their official contact numbers. Awareness is key in protecting yourself from phishing attempts and scams like the one related to 02 8006 7474 / 0280067474.