0434 626 529: Suspicious Scam Attempt Immitating ATO and Bendigo Bank

• Scam

The number 0434 626 529 has been reported as suspicious, allegedly posing as the ATO and Bendigo Bank. If you receive a call or SMS from this number, it's advisable to avoid engaging and report it.

Understanding the Reports on 0434 626 529

The number 0434 626 529 / 0434626529 has emerged as a concerning source of scams targeting unsuspecting Australians. Users have flagged this number for sending fraudulent SMS messages, trying to extract personal information under the guise of official institutions like the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Bendigo Bank.

Scam Types Identified

Based on user input received between late November and early December 2022, it is evident that 0434 626 529 / 0434626529 is involved in a dual-pronged scam operation:

• ATO Impersonation Scam: One report dated 29 November 2022 warned about an SMS purporting to be from the ATO, claiming there was a pending tax return. The message included a link meant to capture sensitive personal information under the pretense of a tax obligation.
• Bendigo Bank Phishing Attempt: Multiple reports from 2 December 2022 highlighted messages from this number claiming to be Bendigo Bank, instructing recipients to click links if they had not registered a new payee. Victims reported having no connections to Bendigo Bank, raising suspicions over the legitimacy of these claims.

How to Handle Calls or Messages from 0434 626 529

If you receive a call or SMS from this number, it is crucial to exercise caution. Here are recommended steps to take:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid responding to or clicking on any links provided in messages from this number.
• Verify Independently: If you believe an SMS may be genuine, use official channels to verify the information instead of responding directly to the received message.
• Report the Number: For safety reasons, consider reporting this number to local authorities or the relevant entities such as the ATO or Bendigo Bank.

Conclusion

In summary, 0434 626 529 / 0434626529 is a suspected scam number taking malicious advantage of the trustworthiness associated with federal and bank communications. Always remain discerning when dealing with unsolicited messages and utilise tools such as Reverseau or Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to identify unknown callers. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from such scams and help in the collective effort to thwart fraud activities.