0434 616 983: Scam Call - Commonwealth Bank Impersonation

• Scam

0434 616 983 has been reported as a scam call impersonating the Commonwealth Bank. Learn how to identify and handle fraudulent calls effectively.

Understanding the Scam Behind 0434 616 983

The phone number 0434 616 983 / 0434616983 has been flagged by users as a scam number, specifically portraying itself as a representative from the Commonwealth Bank. This type of scam typically aims to instil panic regarding financial security, luring victims into providing personal or financial information.

Details of the Scam

In a recent report dated 19 October 2022, a user recounted receiving a call from this number. The caller claimed that there had been large withdrawals from the user's savings account, purportedly from New Zealand and the USA. Upon further questioning, including a request for verification of the caller’s identity, the individual on the other end abruptly hung up. This is a common tactic used by scammers—generating urgency to compel victims to surrender sensitive information without proper verification.

Classifying 0434 616 983

Given the nature of the reports surrounding this number, it is crucial to classify it as a scam. The use of financial panic as leverage, along with the refusal to provide verification, strongly signals a fraudulent activity targeting unsuspecting individuals.

How to Handle Suspicious Calls

• Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from this number or any number that raises suspicions, do not continue the conversation. Hang up immediately.
• Verify Independently: Contact your bank directly using official channels if you suspect that the call may have been legitimate. Do not use any numbers provided by the caller.
• Report the Incident: Consider reporting the number to the relevant authorities, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or your local police.
• Use Reverse Phone Lookup: Tools like Reverseau can help verify any unknown numbers and identify potential scams. It's a great resource in Australia for knowing who called you.

Staying Vigilant

In conclusion, 0434 616 983 / 0434616983 is a scam number impersonating a reputable bank to exploit victims. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant when fielding calls from unknown numbers. By employing due diligence, you can protect your personal and financial information from scams like these.