0490 051 967: Suspicious call claiming to be from Government Internet Security

• Suspicious

The phone number 0490 051 967 has been reported as suspicious, with claims of it being a government call regarding internet security. Here’s how to handle calls from this number safely.

Understanding the Suspicious Caller – 0490 051 967

The phone number 0490 051 967 / 0490051967 has sparked concern amongst users who reported receiving calls from it. Many have classified the calls as suspicious, particularly due to the claims made by the caller regarding government internet security.

On 25 January 2023, one user reported that the caller pretended to be a government official, reaching out on a public holiday from a mobile number, which raises immediate red flags. Government departments typically don’t make unsolicited calls from mobile numbers, especially during public holidays. This user’s experience reflects a common tactic employed by scammers who impersonate trusted authorities to obtain personal information.

Scarcity of Legitimate Government Outreach

When a number like 0490 051 967 / 0490051967 is reported in such contexts, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution. Legitimate government agencies do not typically request sensitive information over the phone, especially in such a casual manner. Instead, they prefer to communicate through official channels or emails which can be verified.

Identifying Scams: What to Look Out For

• Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers often spoof their caller ID to appear as if they are calling from an official number.
• High-pressure tactics: If the caller asks you to take immediate action or threatens negative consequences, it may be a scam.
• Request for personal information: Be sceptical of callers asking for sensitive details such as your bank details, passwords, or identification numbers.

How to Handle Calls from 0490 051 967

If you receive a call from 0490 051 967 / 0490051967 or similar numbers, here’s how to stay safe:

• Don’t share personal information until you confirm the identity of the caller.
• Hang up and independently verify the number by contacting the relevant government department directly.
• Consider reporting the number to services that track scammers, as your information can help others avoid potential scams.

Using a service like Reverseau and the tools offered by Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can give you added peace of mind when determining the source of unknown callers. By being informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from potential scams that may arise from such unsolicited calls.