1800 953 973: Scam Alert - Impersonating Bendigo Bank

• Scam

Have you received a call from 1800 953 973? This number is reported as a scam, with claims of impersonating Bendigo Bank. Learn how to protect yourself from such callers.

Understanding the Scam Behind 1800 953 973

The phone number 1800 953 973 / 00953973 has recently come under fire for serious allegations of fraudulent activity. Many users have reported receiving messages claiming to be from Bendigo Bank, stating that a transaction for an unknown individual named Sarah Jones has been paused. Given the content of these messages, it's clear that this number is involved in scam activity, particularly targeting individuals by pretending to be legitimate financial institutions.

The Nature of the Scam

The reports indicate that the calls or text messages urge recipients to act urgently, often suggesting that security measures have been breached regarding their accounts. However, in this case, users specifically noted they have no affiliation with Bendigo Bank and are unfamiliar with the mentioned transaction or individual.

• Impersonation Scam: This scam involves criminals impersonating reputable banks to harvest personal information or financial details from unsuspecting victims.
• Fictitious Transactions: Claiming that a sum of money is on hold, the scammers aim to instil fear and prompt urgent reactions from individuals, leading them to disclose sensitive information.

How to Handle Calls from 1800 953 973

If you receive a call or text from this number, it's advisable to:

• Do Not Respond: Avoid engaging with the callers or providing any personal information.
• Block the Number: Use your phone’s features to block the number to prevent further communication.
• Verify Independently: If you're concerned about a recent transaction, contact Bendigo Bank directly using official contact information from their website.
• Report the Incident: Consider reporting the scam to local authorities or consumer protection agencies, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to unexpected calls regarding financial matters. Be proactive and protect yourself by using services like Reverseau for a quick reverse phone lookup, ensuring your information remains safe.

As a rule of thumb, if a situation sounds urgent and unexpected, it's worth double-checking before taking any action. Your vigilance is the best defence against scams like this one.