1800 491 856: Suspicious Call from CBA

• Suspicious

The phone number 1800 491 856 has been reported as a suspicious call from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA). Learn how to handle calls from this number and protect yourself from potential scams.

The phone number 1800 491 856 has raised concerns among users who have reported it as a suspicious call, allegedly from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA). Several individuals received a call from this number offering limited options and vague instructions, prompting users to question its legitimacy.

One user, who contacted the number on 11/12/2022, described the experience of receiving a call on their silent landline. After dialling the number back, they were greeted with an automated message presenting only two options, which felt oddly minimal and typical of scam operations. Upon selecting one option, they ended up speaking to a man who, despite having a pleasant accent, exhibited unusual phrasing. He instructed the caller to "step into your branch," without providing clear information about the purpose of the call.

This type of interaction is what raises red flags and raises suspicions of a possible scam. Callers are often kept in the dark with vague instructions intended to create urgency, leaving them unsure about the circumstances that initiated the call.

In analysing the reviews, it is advisable to consider this number as suspicious. Although it is linked to a prominent organisation like CBA, the circumstances surrounding the call are less than ideal and seem inconsistent with standard banking practices.

To handle calls from 1800 491 856 / 00491856 or any number that raises your concern:

• Do not provide personal information: Legitimate organisations will never ask for sensitive details over the phone.
• Contact your bank directly: If you're unsure, hang up and use an official number found on your bank's website or documents.
• Report suspicious activity: Inform appropriate bodies if you suspect a scam, as this can help protect others from potential fraud.

Utilising tools like Reverseau or Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can be beneficial in helping users ascertain the identity behind unknown callers. Remember, when it comes to phone calls, especially those inviting you to take immediate action, it's always better to err on the side of caution.