0491 309 142: Suspicious Text Claiming to be from Bendigo Bank

• Scam

Beware of calls or texts from 0491 309 142. Users report it as suspicious, with a claim linking to Bendigo Bank. Read on for advice on handling communications from this number.

Receiving a message from an unknown number can often raise eyebrows, and the reports concerning the number 0491 309 142 are no exception. Classified as suspicious by users, this number claims to represent Bendigo Bank. In particular, one notable report from 12 August 2022, hints at a potential scam involving a text asking recipients to click a link under the guise of a bank notification. Given the circumstances, caution is advised.

The communication suggests that a payee has been added to the recipient's account, prompting users to follow a linked action. Such techniques are characteristic of phishing scams, where scammers impersonate legitimate institutions to harvest sensitive information, such as banking details or personal data. These scams can escalate quickly, leading to serious financial risks for unsuspecting victims.

Here’s how to deal with suspicious communications from this number:

• Do not click on any links provided in the message. Instead, independently verify any notifications directly with Bendigo Bank through their official website or customer service.
• Block the number if you determine it to be a scam. If you're receiving repeated messages or calls from it, consider reporting it to your phone carrier.
• Use tools like Reverseau or other Reverse Phone Lookup Australia services to check information about numbers you do not recognise. This can provide clarity on the identity behind the call or text.
• Stay informed about common scams in Australia. Knowledge about how fraudsters operate can empower you to take the right steps if you encounter similar situations.

If you've also had encounters with 0491 309 142, share your experiences. Customer reporting plays a crucial role in identifying scams early and helping others in the community stay vigilant. Always remember, when in doubt about the legitimacy of a contact, it's better to err on the side of caution.