02 8912 2166: Scam Call – Impersonation of Department of Home Affairs

• Scam

Have you received a call from 02 8912 2166? This number has been reported as a scam, with claims of impersonating the Department of Home Affairs. Learn how to handle such calls effectively.

Is 02 8912 2166 / 0289122166 a scam?

The phone number 02 8912 2166 / 0289122166 has been reported by numerous users as being involved in a deceptive scheme, specifically impersonating the Department of Home Affairs. The standard modus operandi includes a robocall that falsely warns victims about legal actions being initiated in their name, simply to elicit panic and obtain personal information.

Understanding the Scam

This type of scam is unfortunately common in Australia. Scammers often leverage the aura of legitimacy associated with government departments to create a sense of urgency. By informing targets about supposed legal action, they provoke fear, leading unsuspecting individuals to reveal confidential details such as their Medicare number or bank information.

What Should You Do?

• Do not engage: If you receive a call from this number, hang up immediately. Engaging with scammers can lead to further harassment or more complicated scams.
• Verify information: Rather than responding to the call, contact the actual Department of Home Affairs through official channels to confirm if there are any legitimate matters concerning you.
• Report the call: Reporting these numbers to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) can help authorities track and tackle scam operations.
• Preserve your privacy: Never divulge personal information over the phone, especially if you did not initiate the call.

How to Identify Similar Scams

With booming technology, scammers are constantly adapting their tactics. Here are some red flags to watch for:

• Unexpected calls claiming to be from government agencies or organisations.
• Requests for personal information or money.
• Automated messages that sound robotic or unnatural.

As Australians, awareness and caution are our best defences against such scams. Remember, if it sounds too alarming to be true, verify first. If you want to perform a Reverse Phone Lookup in Australia on suspicious calls, platforms like Reverseau can help you determine the origins and trustworthiness of unfamiliar numbers.