- Scam
- Suspicious
The phone number 0485 974 319 has been reported as a scam, associated with robocalls in Chinese trying to impersonate immigration services. Learn how to handle calls from this number to protect yourself.
Understanding the Scam Behind 0485 974 319
The phone number 0485 974 319 / 0485974319 has surfaced recently as a source of concern among Australian residents, primarily reported as a scam. Several users have encountered automated messages predominantly in Chinese, claiming to be associated with the Immigration Department. This article aims to dissect user reports to classify and elaborate on the nature of this scam.
Classification: A Scam Call
User reports consistently label 0485 974 319 / 0485974319 as a scam. Callers typically receive a pre-recorded message, which includes offers of support in both English and Chinese. This is a classic tactic used by scammers to confuse and manipulate recipients. As reflected in the reviews, users quickly identified the abnormality in the call, especially those highlighting the odd phrasing and requests for confirmation (such as the suspicious "emergency apademic").
Common Characteristics of the Scam
- Language Barrier: A significant portion of calls are in Chinese, which raises suspicions for non-Chinese speakers. The ambiguity of the language combined with non-recognised prompts leaves many confused. Recipients often report deleting these messages without responding.
- Impersonation of Authorities: The claims of being connected to the Immigration Department suggest attempts to impersonate authoritative figures, likely aimed at creating a sense of urgency.
- Automated Systems: The calls are pre-recorded with automated responses, often leading people to believe they are dealing with a legitimate issue.
How to Protect Yourself
If you receive a call from 0485 974 319 / 0485974319, it is advisable not to engage with the messages or call the number back. Here are some practical steps you can take:
- Do Not Respond: Avoid pressing any buttons or confirming personal details as instructed in the robocall. Responding can confirm your number as active and lead to more scam attempts.
- Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup: For anyone curious about who called, using a service like Reverseau can provide insights into unknown callers and enhance your knowledge about the legitimacy of phone numbers.
- Report the Number: If you believe you have been targeted, report the number to the appropriate authorities such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Conclusion
The reports surrounding 0485 974 319 / 0485974319 overwhelmingly categorise it as a scam, specifically a robocall strategy using Chinese language messages. Awareness and vigilance are key in handling such calls. For those wanting to learn more about unidentified numbers, the Reverse Phone Lookup Australia service offers an invaluable tool to decipher the legitimacy behind various calls. Always remain cautious and protect your personal information from potential threats.
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What Our Users Reviewed
I did not answer this call, but they left a message that sounded like it was in Chinese.
Scam. You know that one in Chinese. Once you ring back they confirm your vulnerable so best to check here on all Chinese language call. Or English and Chinese departments in messages left automatically. Number will vary.
Chinese department or english department. Left the message on voicemail. I deleted message without responding to prompts.
Scam call. The automated message said they were from the Immigration Department, noting an abnormality. Considering I was born in Australia, I can't recall ever having to deal with the Immigration Department.
The call sounds like a scam.
This phone number could not be found in the Reverse AU database. Based on this information, I suggest that it may be a scam.
The caller mentioned something that sounded like "emergency apademic." When I pressed 1 for English, the call abruptly ended. This felt odd and untrustworthy.
Chinese scammer.
The caller left a message in Chinese, which I couldn't understand. Since I have no idea who they are, I strongly advise against returning the call.
Exercise caution with this unlisted phone number, as it is likely another spoofed number used by cyber criminals. I let it ring out and received a nonsensical SMS message after the call.
Could be potential scammers or telemarkerters. I only give out my number to trusted people, and this number is unknown to me.
I received a scam call with a recorded message stating that my phone service would be cut off unless I took immediate action.