0405 597 873 - Scam Alert: Automated Voice Call Impersonating Commonwealth Bank

• Scam

0405 597 873 is reported as a scam phone number, impersonating Commonwealth Bank. Learn how to identify such scams and protect yourself from potential fraud.

Understanding the Threat of 0405 597 873

The phone number 0405 597 873 / 0405597873 has been flagged by users as a scam, specifically portrayed as an automated voice call impersonating the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. This type of scam, commonly referred to as “vishing,” involves scammers using technology to create an automated system that mimics trusted entities for fraudulent purposes.

Reported Activities

On 09/11/2023, a user reported receiving a call from this number wherein an automated voice claimed that a transaction of $1800 had been made on their account. The voice prompted the user to approve or disapprove of the transaction by clicking numbers on their phone. Alarmingly, this seems to be a typical tactic employed by scammers to capture sensitive information or to cause panic, leading victims to divulge personal and banking details.

Why It’s Classified as a Scam

This number qualifies as a scam based on the following analysis:

• Impersonation of a Trusted Entity: The call is disguised as coming from a reputable institution, in this case, Commonwealth Bank, which raises immediate red flags.
• Automated Robocalls: The usage of automated systems to send out potentially malicious messages is a common hallmark of scams.
• Solicitation of Immediate Response: Targets are urged to act quickly—either approving or rejecting a non-existent transaction— a tactic often used to confuse and mislead victims.

How to Handle Potential Calls from 0405 597 873

It's important to remain vigilant if you receive a call from this number. Here are some suggested steps to take:

• Do Not Engage: If the call seems suspicious, do not press any buttons or provide any information. Hang up immediately.
• Verify Independently: Contact your bank directly using a trusted number (from their official website) to confirm any claims made during the call.
• Report the Number: Report any fraudulent calls to local authorities or the Australian Cyber Security Centre to help combat these scams.

The emergence of numbers like 0405 597 873 / 0405597873 in the Australian telecommunication landscape serves as an important reminder of the prevalence of scams attempting to exploit consumers. Utilizing services like Reverseau or Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can aid in verifying suspicious numbers or identifying who called you in Australia. Stay informed, protect your personal information, and help others by sharing knowledge about these threats.