0455 016 137 - Scam: Impersonating Family Member Fraud

• Scam
• Suspicious

0455 016 137 has been reported as a scam number, with users claiming it impersonates family members to solicit banking information. Learn how to identify and report such calls effectively.

Identifying 0455 016 137: A Scam Caller

The phone number 0455 016 137 has raised significant alarms among users, being categorised as a potential scam. Reports indicate that the caller impersonates a family member, creating a deceptive narrative aimed at obtaining sensitive banking information.

Nature of the Scam

According to user reports dated 15/11/2022, callers referencing this number claimed to be related to the recipients, alleging that a family member was using their credit card without permission and inquiring if they regularly use internet banking. Such tactics are common in scams where fraudsters exploit familial trust to incite panic and manipulate individuals into sharing personal and banking details.

Why Is This Number Considered a Scam?

• Impersonation: The use of a family connection to create urgency and fear is a classic tactic seen in various scams.
• Consistency in Reports: Multiple reports on the same day indicate a coordinated effort to reach various individuals, increasing the scam's reach.
• Lack of Personal Identification: The callers do not provide any verifiable information to support their claims, which is a red flag for fraudulent activity.

What To Do If You Receive a Call from This Number?

If you receive a call from 0455 016 137, please consider the following actions:

• Do not engage: If you suspect a scam, hang up the conversation immediately.
• Verify independently: If the call refers to a family member, contact them directly using a number you know is legitimate.
• Report the incident: Report the scam attempts to the appropriate authorities, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or your local service provider.

In the age of digital communication, awareness and skepticism are crucial when dealing with unknown numbers. Tools like Reverseau can assist in identifying the origins of such calls and enhancing your security. Always stay informed about who called you; for peace of mind, utilise a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia service to scrutinise unfamiliar numbers effectively.