0498 532 201: Automated Scam Pretending to be Australian Federal Police

• Scam

Beware of the phone number 0498 532 201, reported as an automated scam call impersonating the Australian Federal Police. Learn how to recognise and handle these deceptive calls effectively.

Understanding the Risks of 0498 532 201

The phone number 0498 532 201 has been flagged by users as an automated scam call. The reports detail a message falsely claiming to be from the Australian Federal Police, alerting recipients that their bank account and tax file number are under investigation. This type of scam frequently instills fear in unsuspecting victims, prompting them to engage without verifying the authenticity of the caller.

What Type of Scam is It?

This particular scam falls under the category of identity theft and phishing, where scammers attempt to extract sensitive personal or financial information by impersonating a government authority. The message instructs recipients to press '1' for more details, leading individuals deeper into a trap designed to exploit their fears.

How to Handle Calls from This Number

If you receive a call from 0498 532 201, here are steps you can take:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid pressing any buttons or responding to the message. This could lead you to a more convincing scam.
• Hang Up: If the call is connected, simply hang up. Block the number on your device for added protection.
• Verify with Official Sources: If you are concerned, contact the Australian Federal Police directly through their official channels to verify the legitimacy of the claim.
• Report the Scam: Report the call to organisations such as Scamwatch, which helps monitor and combat scams in Australia.

Stay Informed and Safe

In today's digital landscape, staying informed about potential scams is crucial. Tools like Reverseau and Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can assist in identifying unknown callers and help in making informed decisions regarding suspicious calls. Remember, if it seems too alarming to be true, it usually is!

Always trust your instincts, and take a moment to think before engaging with unknown numbers. By spreading awareness about numbers like 0498 532 201, we can collectively reduce the effectiveness of such scams and protect our community. Stay safe!