02 8310 8018 - Scam Alert: Phishing Attempt Posing as Telstra and PayPal

Understanding the Scam Behind 02 8310 8018

The phone number 02 8310 8018 has been flagged by users across Australia as a potential scam. Reports indicate that this number makes contact under the guise of being associated with reputable companies like Telstra and PayPal, making it essential to be vigilant.

Analysis of User Reports

Users have reported various interactions with this number, highlighting a common theme: unsolicited calls claiming issues with accounts that many do not possess. Specifically, users stated that the callers had information about them but failed to provide legitimate details to verify their claims.

• On 20 April 2025, a user reported multiple attempts to return a call to this number, only to receive a busy signal each time. This suggests evasiveness from the caller.
• Several users on 21 April 2025 noted that calls were received without any message being left, creating suspicion about the caller's motives.
• Another user pointed out that the caller falsely identified themselves as an employee discussing an outstanding Telstra bill, which raised alarm bells since the user did not hold any account with the company.
• The most alarming report came on 23 April 2025, where a user stated that the caller attempted to extract bank details under the pretense of monitoring a non-existent PayPal account issue. This is a classic phishing attempt, designed to steal personal information.

Classification: Scam

Based on the information gathered from user reviews, 02 8310 8018 is classified as a scam number. The manipulative tactics employed by callers indicate that they are fishing for sensitive data by posing as representatives from well-known companies. Such scams often exploit trust, urging individuals to provide information that can lead to financial loss.

How to Handle Calls from 02 8310 8018

If you receive a call from this number or similar, follow these steps:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid providing personal details or financial information.
• Verify Independently: If the caller claims to be from a specific company, hang up and contact the company directly using official contact details from their website.
• Report the Number: Consider reporting the number to your telecommunications provider and to consumer protection agencies.
• Use Reverse AU: Use Reverse Phone Lookup Australia services like Reverse AU to identify suspicious calls in the future.

Staying informed and vigilant is your best defence against scams like the one associated with 02 8310 8018. Remember, if something seems off, it probably is.