0455 179 650: Scam Alert - WhatsApp Impersonation Message

• Spam
• Uncertain
• Scam

Received a message from 0455 179 650? This number has been reported as a scam attempting to impersonate family members. Learn how to handle such calls and keep your information safe.

Understanding 0455 179 650: A Scam on the Rise

The phone number 0455 179 650 / 0455179650 has been flagged by multiple users as a source of suspicious activity. The reports share a common theme, indicating that the number is used for a WhatsApp impersonation scam, where the caller pretends to be a family member claiming to have lost their phone.

Nature of the Scam

Many users reported receiving text messages that start with “hi mum” or “hi Dad”, requesting a response via WhatsApp to help them retrieve their phone. These messages exploit the trust factor associated with familial relationships, making it more likely for individuals to respond without verifying the authenticity of the request.

Why This Number is Considered Scam

• Imitation of Family: The scam leverages the emotional bond between parents and children, making the deceptive request more persuasive.
• Encourages Unverified Contact: By directing recipients to WhatsApp, the scammer can further manipulate individuals outside the traceable phone network.
• Continued Attempts: As noted by several disgruntled users, the number has made repeated attempts, even after being blocked, displaying persistence typical of fraudulent scams.

What to Do If You Receive a Message from This Number

If you receive a message from 0455 179 650 / 0455179650 or a similar text, it’s crucial to handle it with caution. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Do Not Respond: Avoid replying to the message or providing any personal information until you can verify the sender's identity.
• Contact Family Directly: Instead of responding to the message, call your family member using their known number to check if they truly need help.
• Report the Number: Use services like Reverseau to report the number and alert other potential victims. A reverse phone lookup can reveal further details about whether the number has been flagged as problematic.
• Block the Number: If you’ve confirmed that it’s a scam attempt, block the number on your phone to prevent any further communications.

Staying alert and informed is your best defence against scams like this. If you have further concerns or wish to find out more about the number’s history, consider using reliable reverse phone lookup services in Australia.