02 8404 1646 - Scam Alert: Phishing Attempt Impersonating PayPal

• Scam

Beware of calls from 02 8404 1646, which users have reported as a scam attempting to impersonate PayPal. This article provides guidance on recognising such scams and how to protect yourself.

Identifying the Scam: 02 8404 1646

The phone number 02 8404 1646 / 0284041646 has been reported by multiple users as a scam call. According to their experiences, the callers claim to be representatives from PayPal, warning that an account debit is imminent. This is a classic example of a phishing attempt, where fraudsters employ automated services to dupe unsuspecting individuals into revealing personal information or handing over money.

Nature of the Scam

Primarily, the nature of this scam manifests as automated or "robo" calls, claiming to be from PayPal. Users reported receiving messages suggesting that questionable charges were about to be processed on their accounts. The immediate aim here is to instill panic and urgency, pushing recipients to provide sensitive details quickly. Such tactics are misleading and have the potential to lead to identity theft or financial loss.

How to Deal with Phishing Calls

• Do not engage: If you receive a call from this number, do not interact with the caller or follow any instructions they provide.
• Verify independently: Instead of calling back, directly contact PayPal using their official customer service channels to enquire about any issues related to your account.
• Report the scam: Make sure to report the call to relevant authorities such as Scamwatch or the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
• Educate others: Share this information with family and friends to raise awareness about this common scam, helping to protect the wider community.

Final Thoughts

As with many scams that mislead individuals by masquerading as legitimate entities, awareness and vigilance are key to avoiding falling victim to such fraudulent schemes. If you're confronted with a suspicious call from 02 8404 1646 / 0284041646, exercise caution and consider using services like Reverseau's Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to identify unknown numbers and check their reliability. Remember, the best defence against scams is knowledge!