0478 051 406 - Scam Alert: Commonwealth Bank Phishing Attempt

• Scam

The number 0478 051 406 has been identified as a scam related to a Commonwealth Bank phishing attempt. Learn how to handle calls from this number and protect your personal information.

Understanding 0478 051 406: A Scam Number

The phone number 0478 051 406 / 0478051406 has been reported by several users as a scam associated with a phishing attempt purportedly from the Commonwealth Bank. These recorded messages are crafted to create a sense of urgency and trick unsuspecting individuals into divulging sensitive information.

What Happened?

On 23 February 2024, one user reported receiving a call from this number where an automated voice, identifying itself as "Olivia," claimed there was a request to debit $1800 from the user's card. The call instructed the recipient to press 1 if they had authorised the transaction or press 2 if they had not. This is a classic tactic used by scammers to elicit personal information from victims.

Why is it Classified as a Scam?

• Impersonation: The caller falsely presents themselves as an official representative of a reputable institution, which in this case is the Commonwealth Bank.
• Urgency and Threats: Scammers often create urgency, suggesting immediate action is necessary to avoid financial loss, prompting recipients to act rashly.
• Unsolicited Call: Legitimate institutions, like banks, typically do not initiate contact through unsolicited phone calls regarding account issues, especially via automated messages.

How to Handle Such Calls

If you receive a call from 0478 051 406 / 0478051406 or a similar number, it is crucial to remain cautious:

• Do not engage: Hang up immediately without providing any personal information.
• Verify independently: Contact your bank directly using official contact numbers, available on their website or official communications.
• Report the scam: Utilize resources such as Reverseau to report the number and share your experience, helping others stay informed.

Protect Yourself

Being aware of the common tactics employed by scammers is vital in today’s digital age. You can perform a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to identify unknown numbers and see if they have been reported by other users for similar scams. Remember, when in doubt, verify before you respond.