1300 175 645: Scam Alert - Phishing Attempt Impersonating Bendigo Bank

• Suspicious
• Scam

Received a call or text from 1300 175 645? This number is reported as a scam, impersonating Bendigo Bank to steal personal information. Read our guide on how to handle these suspicious claims.

Understanding the Scam Behind 1300 175 645

The phone number 1300 175 645 / 00175645 has recently been reported by numerous users as a scam related to fraudulent activity impersonating Bendigo Bank. With the rise of digital fraud, it becomes paramount to know how to handle such communications effectively to protect your identity and finances.

Identifying the Scam

Experts categorise calls from 1300 175 645 / 00175645 as phishing attempts, disguised as bank notifications urging immediate responses. Users have shared messages falsely indicating that a payment to a third party is being processed, often specifying large sums of money and a recipient’s name. For instance, messages claim a payment of $2,500 or $1,500 is allegedly underway and require verification by contacting the quoted number. However, these notifications have left many puzzled, particularly since recipients do not even bank with Bendigo.

Why This Number Is a Scam

Several reasons contribute to the classification of this number as a scam:

• Impersonation of a Trusted Institution: Criminals often wield trusted brands to gain credibility. In this case, using Bendigo Bank enhances the deceitful nature of the communication.
• Urgency and Pressure: Scammers typically impose urgency to provoke rash decisions. Messages like these suggest that immediate action is required, compelling recipients to call back without thinking critically.
• Elaborate False Claims: Mentioning specific recipients and payment amounts lends an air of authenticity. This technique is commonly used to catch the unsuspecting individual off guard.

How to Deal with Calls from 1300 175 645

If you receive a call or text from this number, it is advisable to take the following actions:

• Do Not Respond: Avoid calling the number back or responding to the message. Engaging further may increase your risk of falling victim to the scam.
• Verify with The Bank: If you are a Bendigo Bank customer, independently contact their official customer service line for verification of any alleged activity on your account.
• Report the Scam: Notify the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or your local consumer protection agency about the incident to help others avoid similar scams.