02 8529 5269: Scam Alert – Impersonating Telstra and Commonwealth Bank

• Scam

The number 02 8529 5269 has been reported as a scam. Users have identified calls purporting to be from major companies, including Telstra and the Commonwealth Bank. Discover how to deal with calls from this number effectively.

Understanding the Threat: 02 8529 5269

The phone number 02 8529 5269 / 0285295269 has raised alarm bells among users in Australia, categorised squarely as a scam. Reports confirm that this number is associated with individuals impersonating leading companies like Telstra and the Commonwealth Bank, a common tactic employed by scammers to extract personal information or financial details from unsuspecting victims.

User Experiences Highlighting the Scam

From user reviews, it's evident that this number has become a recurring nuisance. On 7 January 2024, a user detailed a call from someone claiming to be from Telstra, who requested remote access to their phone. This type of scam, often called 'tech support scam', involves tricking individuals into granting scammers access to their devices, potentially providing them with sensitive information.

Another user reported that on 8 January 2024, they received a call from the same number, which attempted to impersonate the Commonwealth Bank. This user did not have an account with the bank, which prompted the caller to abruptly terminate the conversation. Such practices highlight a severe breach of trust as scammers exploit the names of legitimate organisations to appear credible.

How to Handle Calls from 02 8529 5269

If you receive a call from this number—or any number that raises your suspicions—here are some practical steps to take:

• Do Not Engage: If you recognise the caller as suspicious, do not respond to any requests for personal information.
• Verify the Caller: Hang up and call back the official customer service line of the company they claimed to represent to check the legitimacy of the call.
• Report the Number: Consider using services like Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia or report such scams to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
• Stay Informed: Keep updated on common scams affecting Australians, as knowledge is your best defence against fraud.

Conclusion

The number 02 8529 5269 / 0285295269 is a scam number posing a significant risk to Australians. By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these dishonest tactics. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.