1800 845 152 - PayPal Scam Alert

Understanding the Threat: 1800 845 152

The number 1800 845 152 / 00845152 has raised alarm bells among users, and based on collective reports, it has been classified as a PayPal-related scam. Individuals have expressed concerns that this number is being used by fraudsters to impersonate PayPal customer service in a bid to extract sensitive information.

What Makes This Number Suspicious?

Reports indicate a pattern of deceit involving claims that the recipient's PayPal account has been accessed from an unfamiliar location, such as South Africa. Victims are prompted to divulge personal card details under the guise of securing their account from unauthorized transactions, which is a classic tactic used by scammers. The more details shared, the deeper the trap sinks.

Evaluating the Scam

This particular tactic falls under the category of identity theft and phishing scams. Here’s why:

• Imposter Behaviour: The caller pretends to represent a well-known financial institution, in this case, PayPal, which lends credibility to their claims.
• Pressure Tactics: Many reviews highlight that the callers foster a sense of urgency that compels the recipient to act quickly, often without careful consideration.
• Unsolicited Requests: Legitimate companies like PayPal will never ask for sensitive information like passwords or card details over the phone or via unsolicited calls.

How to Handle Calls from 1800 845 152

Receiving a call from this number should be treated with skepticism and caution. Here are some steps to consider:

• Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from 1800 845 152 / 00845152, do not provide any personal information. Hang up if necessary.
• Verify Independently: If the caller claims to be from PayPal, do not use the number they provide. Instead, contact PayPal directly through their official channels.
• Report the Number: If you suspect fraudulent activity, report the number to relevant authorities such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC).

Stay Informed

Using services such as Reverse AU can help you determine who called and whether to treat the interaction as suspicious. In today’s digital age, understanding how to protect yourself against such scams is crucial, especially when it comes to sensitive information like financial details. Always remember: if something feels off, it probably is!