0431 798 495: Scam - Toll Bill Phishing Attempt

• Scam

The number 0431 798 495 has been reported as a scam related to toll bill phishing. If you receive a call or message from this number, learn how to handle it and protect your personal information.

Overview of 0431 798 495

The phone number 0431 798 495 / 0431798495 has recently come under scrutiny as a scam number identified by users in Australia. Reports suggest that this number is involved in a deceptive toll bill phishing scheme aimed at unsuspecting individuals.

Details of the Scam

On 23 April 2023, users reported receiving a text message from this number, claiming to be from the LINKT toll system. The message falsely notified recipients that their toll bill was overdue and urged them to take immediate action to avoid fines. The text included a suspicious link (“inl71es.vip”), which is typical of phishing attempts designed to steal personal and financial information.

Recognising Toll Bill Scams

Toll bill scams, like the one associated with 0431 798 495 / 0431798495, often use urgent language to provoke anxiety and prompt quick responses from victims. This common tactic relies on the fear of penalties and the desire to resolve outstanding obligations. Legitimate companies, however, will usually not contact you via text for sensitive items such as overdue bills. Instead, they would send official communication through secure channels.

How to Deal with Suspicious Messages

• Do not click on links: If you receive a message similar to the one reported, avoid clicking any links within it.
• Verify with official sources: Contact the company directly using official contact details found on their website, rather than responding to the message.
• Report the number: File a complaint with the appropriate authorities, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
• Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup: For any unknown numbers, consider using a reverse phone lookup service like Reverseau to identify the caller before engaging.

Given the nature of the reports about 0431 798 495 / 0431798495, it's crucial to remain vigilant about unsolicited communications. Recognising these scams helps protect your personal information and enhances your understanding of how to address potentially malicious contact.

For anyone wondering, “Who called me Australia?”, ensuring you check the validity of unfamiliar numbers through sources like Reverseau can be a great first step in safeguarding your privacy.