03 9120 1975: Scam Alert - Fraudulent HSBC Message

• Scam

Beware of calls from 03 9120 1975, reported as a scam involving fraudulent HSBC messages. Learn how to identify and handle similar calls effectively.

Identifying the Threat: 03 9120 1975

The phone number 03 9120 1975 has recently come under scrutiny with growing user reports labelling it as a potential scam attempt. The most common complaint, noted on 28/09/2023, details an SMS from this number falsely indicating that an account has been put on hold by HSBC Australia. Importantly, the recipient of this message confirmed that they do not hold any account with the bank, raising immediate red flags.

What Type of Scam Is This?

This situation exemplifies a classic phishing scam, where malicious actors impersonate a legitimate financial institution, in this case, HSBC, in a bid to elicit personal information from unsuspecting individuals. Phishing scams often leverage urgency to instil fear and prompt quick reactions, encouraging people to disclose sensitive information under the false pretense of account security.

How to Handle Calls or Messages from This Number

• Do Not Engage: If you receive a call or SMS from 03 9120 1975 / 0391201975, do not engage or provide any personal information.
• Verify Directly: If the communication mentions a specific company like HSBC, contact them directly using verified contact details from their official website—do not use any information provided in suspicious messages.
• Report the Scam: Report the incident to local authorities or Australian scam reporting services to help protect others from similar attacks.
• Use Reverse Phone Lookup: For peace of mind, consider using services like Reverseau to perform a reverse phone lookup in Australia. This tool can help you determine the legitimacy of unfamiliar calls.

Conclusion

The number 03 9120 1975 is being flagged as a scam, likely linked to fraudulent activities posing as HSBC. Always remain vigilant and cautious when dealing with unfamiliar numbers, and refer to reliable sources and helplines for advice. Trust your instincts, and when in doubt, opt to investigate further through reliable channels like Reverseau—empowering Australians to stay informed and safe from scams.