02 7239 3131: Scam Alert - Immigration Visa Issues

• Scam

Received a call from 02 7239 3131? Reports suggest it’s a scam claiming to be from the immigration department. Here’s how to handle such calls.

Understanding the Nature of 02 7239 3131

The Australian phone number 02 7239 3131 / 0272393131 has been flagged as a potential scam, with users reporting calls claiming to be from the immigration department. Reports indicate that the caller informs recipients of supposed issues with their visa, encouraging them to press specific numbers for language options. This is a common tactic among scammers attempting to extract personal information or money from unsuspecting individuals.

Profile of the Scam

User reviews, particularly one from 18 October 2024, highlight that recipients were greeted with a message stating: "Your visa has an issue. For English, press one; for Mandarin, press two." Given that legitimate government departments will not contact you in this manner, it is prudent to classify this as a scam.

How to Handle Suspicious Calls

• Do not engage: If you answer the call, do not provide any personal information or comply with requests to press buttons to continue the conversation.
• Hang up: The best course of action is to terminate the call immediately to avoid further communication.
• Report the call: If you suspect fraud, report the number to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or use services like Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia to garner more information.
• Block the number: Consider blocking this number to prevent repeated spam calls.

Staying Informed

While it can be alarming to receive calls like this, being informed and cautious can help protect you from falling victim to scams. Always verify the authenticity of any call that requests sensitive information. For further assistance, platforms like Reverseau can help you understand who called you and if the number is linked to known scammers.

In summary, 02 7239 3131 / 0272393131 is associated with a scam involving fraudulent claims related to immigration issues. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, it likely is.