Is 03 5001 8059 / 0350018059 Trying to Scam You?
Recent reports about the phone number 03 5001 8059 / 0350018059 have raised red flags among users across Australia. This number has been identified as part of a scam operation, with individuals claiming to represent Telstra's technical support team. Understanding the nature of this type of scam and how to respond is crucial for protecting yourself.
Identifying the Scam
According to user reports from December 2023, callers from this number assert they are calling from Telstra tech support, alleging they have noticed recent changes to a customer's IP address. The scammers claim that this transition from a static to a dynamic IP has jeopardised computer security, prompting them to offer assistance. However, this type of scam is based on misinformation. Changes to IP address types do not inherently affect security.
Reasoning Behind the Classification
The phone number 03 5001 8059 / 0350018059 falls under the 'scam' category, specifically a tech support impersonation scam. Callers will often hang up when challenged or questioned, as noted by multiple users who work in IT and instantly recognised the deceit. These scammers aim to create a sense of urgency, pushing individuals to share personal information or allow remote access to their computers, which can lead to further security compromises.
How to Handle Calls from This Number
- Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from 03 5001 8059 / 0350018059, do not engage with the caller or provide any personal information.
- Verify Independently: Always verify customer support requests through official channels. Reach out to Telstra directly if you're uncertain.
- Report the Number: Consider reporting this number to local authorities or telecommunications providers. Use services like Reverseau to check the number and its reputation.
- Block the Caller: If you're continuously receiving calls from this number, use your phone’s features to block it.
Staying vigilant against such tactics is critical, especially as tech support scams continue to evolve. Remember to stay informed through resources like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia and monitoring platforms such as Who Called Me Australia, so you can sidestep potential scams in the future.