0438 572 121: Scam Alert - Bendigo Bank Phishing Attempt

• Scam

Beware of calls and messages from 0438 572 121 claiming to be from Bendigo Bank. This number is reported as a scam. Learn how to handle these suspicious communications effectively.

Identifying the Scam

The phone number 0438 572 121 / 0438572121 has been reported by multiple users as a phishing attempt disguised as a message from Bendigo Bank. These messages are crafted to create a sense of urgency, claiming that there are issues with the recipient's bank account.

Type of Scam

This specific scam falls under the category of phishing. Scammers send messages purporting to be from a legitimate financial institution, attempting to elicit sensitive personal information. In this case, the scammers have impersonated Bendigo Bank, directing recipients to confirm their account details via a fraudulent link.

User Experiences

According to reports received on 12 January 2022 and 19 January 2022, individuals who received text messages from this number were not customers of Bendigo Bank. Such information heightens the suspicion around this number, illustrating the tactics used by scammers to appear credible.

How to Handle Calls from 0438 572 121

• Do Not Engage: Avoid responding to messages from this number, as engagement may confirm your number as active, leading to further solicitation.
• Do Not Click Links: If you receive a message with a link, do not click on it. Instead, report it to your mobile service provider and to relevant authorities.
• Verify Independently: If in doubt, contact your bank directly using the official number available on their website to confirm any issues with your account.
• Report the Scam: Consider reporting the incident to Scamwatch, helping to protect others from falling victim to this fraud.

Conclusion

Always be cautious of unsolicited messages and calls, especially those requesting personal or financial information. Reverseau can help with a Reverse Phone Lookup in Australia, allowing you to identify suspicious numbers and keep yourself informed about who called you. By remaining vigilant, you can protect yourself against scams like those initiated by 0438 572 121 / 0438572121.