0485 973 213: Scam – Impersonating Telstra

• Scam

Have you received a call from 0485 973 213? This number has been reported as a scam, with a caller impersonating Telstra. Learn how to identify and deal with this type of fraudulent call.

Identifying The Scam Behind 0485 973 213

The phone number 0485 973 213 has emerged as a significant concern for Australians, drawing attention due to its reported attempts at scamming vulnerable individuals. Based on user reports, particularly an interaction dated 12 February 2024, this number is classified as a scam, specifically involving a caller impersonating a reputable company: Telstra.

Details of the Scam

In a recent concerning incident, a foreign male caller claiming to be from Telstra contacted an unsuspecting victim. The caller cleverly used the individual’s first name to create a false sense of familiarity, yet he failed to correctly pronounce the last name. This error is a crucial red flag that alerted the recipient about the caller's true intentions.

The scammer made an alarming claim—that the victim's VPN was public and accessible to the general public. This blatant use of technical jargon is a common tactic employed by scammers to instil panic and urgency. By suggesting that immediate action was needed to resolve non-existent network issues, they aim to manipulate the caller into providing sensitive information or performing certain actions.

How To Handle Such Calls

If you receive a call from 0485 973 213 or a similar number:

• Do not divulge personal information: Scammers are trained to extract personal data under the pretense of legitimate inquiries.
• Hang up: If anything seems suspicious about the call, it’s best to end the conversation without engaging further.
• Report the scam: Notify your service provider and consider reporting to relevant authorities such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

Trust Your Instincts

As Australians navigate the complexities of phone communications, being aware and cautious is paramount. The incidents surrounding 0485 973 213 serve as a reminder to stay vigilant, especially when dealing with unsolicited calls regarding sensitive online matters.

For those seeking clarity about unknown callers, utilising tools like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can help identify the nature of a call and ascertain who called me Australia. Remember, when in doubt, trust your instincts and always prioritise your safety.