1800 491 704: Scam Call Pretending to Be from ANZ

• Scam

The number 1800 491 704 has been reported as a scam, impersonating ANZ services. Learn how to deal with suspicious calls and protect yourself from scams.

Understanding the Nature of 1800 491 704

The phone number 1800 491 704 / 00491704 has recently been flagged by users as a suspicious contact, primarily raising concerns for its association with scam activities. Reports indicate that this number is impersonating legitimate financial institutions, particularly ANZ (Australia and New Zealand Banking Group). The impersonation is particularly concerning as it targets unsuspecting individuals, potentially leading to identity theft or financial loss.

Classification and User Reports

Based on user reviews, particularly those dated 22/12/2022, it is evident that 1800 491 704 / 00491704 is not a legitimate business line. Users have labelled it as a scam, with one review explicitly stating that it was a scammer attempting to mislead customers into providing personal information. Another report highlights that the number contacted them under the guise of performing voice ID setup for ANZ, signalling a classic case of fraud.

Types of Scam Impersonation

This particular scam is characterised by impersonation—a tactic commonly employed by fraudsters to exploit trust in established institutions. In this case, the fraudsters are leveraging the reputable name of ANZ to create a facade of legitimacy. Victims may receive calls claiming they need to verify their identity or resolve account issues, ultimately aiming to siphon off sensitive information.

How to Handle Calls from 1800 491 704

Receiving a call from this number—or any number that raises suspicion—should be taken seriously. Here are steps to protect yourself:

• Do not engage: Hang up immediately if the caller claims to be from ANZ and requests personal information.
• Verify independently: If you do receive a call, verify it by calling ANZ directly using the number provided on their official website.
• Report the number: Use platforms like Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup and to report any scam activity. This helps build awareness and protect others in the community.

Your Safety is Paramount

Always remember, legitimate banks will never initiate contact via a cold call requesting sensitive information. Keeping informed through platforms like Reverseau and storing phone number records can assist you in identifying potential threats swiftly. So, if you encounter 1800 491 704 / 00491704 or similar numbers, always err on the side of caution.