0491 676 052: Scam Alert - Robocall from Fake Department of Home Affairs

• Scam

Beware of 0491 676 052, a phone number reported as a scam. It's posing as the Department of Home Affairs. Here's how to deal with calls from this number.

Understanding the Scam Behind 0491 676 052

The phone number 0491 676 052 / 0491676052 has been flagged by several users as a nuisance call originating from a robocall that impersonates the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). This particular scam appears to target non-permanent residents in Australia, delivering a message intended to instil fear and prompt immediate action.

A Closer Look at the Scam

According to reports, individuals receiving calls from 0491 676 052 / 0491676052 were met with a robotic voice claiming there was an urgent issue requiring their attention. The call offered options in both English and Chinese, which is particularly concerning, as it aims to confuse and manipulate the recipient into compliance.

• Nature of the Scam: This is a common tactic used in phishing scams where scammers pose as reputable government agencies to extract personal information or money.
• Press for Action: The prompt to press '1' or another number can lead to further interactions that may risk personal information or money being requested unlawfully.

Dealing with Calls from 0491 676 052

If you receive a call from this number, it's crucial to remain vigilant. Reputable organisations, especially government departments, typically won't request urgent action over the phone. Here are some key points to handle such calls effectively:

• Do not engage or press any numbers during the call.
• Hang up immediately and report the number to local authorities.
• Consider using Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia to verify unknown numbers.
• Stay informed about current scams by referring to Australian consumer websites that track these fraudulent activities.

Final Thoughts

Calls from 0491 676 052 / 0491676052 are a clear indication of a scam attempting to capitalise on urgency and fear. It's crucial to stay educated about such malicious tactics and always verify before taking any action. If you've had the misfortune of encountering this number, you’re not alone, and taking steps to report it can help protect others in the community.