1800 418 355: Scam Caller Pretending to be HSBC

• Suspicious
• Uncertain
• Scam
• Spam

The phone number 1800 418 355 has been reported as a scammer impersonating HSBC. Learn how to identify these calls and protect yourself from fraud.

Understanding the Dangers of 1800 418 355

The phone number 1800 418 355 / 00418355 has been flagged by multiple users as a scam operation, with the callers falsely claiming to represent HSBC, a major bank in Australia. The overwhelming consensus among reports indicates that this number is not associated with HSBC and is being used to perpetrate a fraudulent activity.

Details of the Scam

Reports emerged as early as 21 October 2023, with victims detailing similar experiences involving texts and calls from this number. The scammers reportedly claimed that there was a transfer issue involving the recipient's account, and advised individuals to call the number provided to rectify the problem. One report highlighted a message that read: 'We have paused a transfer to Lee Adam for $870. If you did NOT authorise this, call us on 1800 418 355 / 00418355 urgently.' This type of phishing attempt is designed to instill panic and urgency, prompting individuals to act quickly without verifying the legitimacy of the message.

Characteristics of This Scam

• Impersonation of a reputable institution (HSBC).
• Urgent requests for personal or financial information.
• Use of scare tactics, such as stopping money transfers.
• False claims of identity verification based on caller ID manipulation.

Recommended Actions

If you receive a call or message from 1800 418 355 / 00418355, it is crucial to take the following steps:

• Do not engage with the caller: Hang up if you receive a suspicious call and do not respond to any messages from this number.
• Verify with your bank: Reach out to HSBC directly through their official channels to confirm any claims made by the caller.
• Report the incident: Notify the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) about the scam, as this aids in tracking and shutting down fraudulent operations.

Final Thoughts

It is imperative to remain vigilant and sceptical of unsolicited calls and messages, especially those claiming to be from financial institutions. Tools like a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can assist in identifying unknown numbers and preventing potential scams. Stay informed and protect yourself from fraud by knowing who called you in Australia!