- Scam
One contributor reported an SMS callback scam from 02 8910 5418 (0289105418). Don't return the call - this is a common scam tactic.
Callback Request Scam for 02 8910 5418
A contributor has reported receiving a scam SMS from 02 8910 5418 (also written as 0289105418) using a callback request tactic. The message asked the recipient to call the number back, a common scam method designed to trick people into initiating contact with fraudsters.
This NSW-based local service number is allocated to Primus Telecommunications Pty Limited. The callback request approach is particularly effective for scammers because it reverses the normal call flow, making it appear as though the recipient is calling a legitimate number rather than receiving an unsolicited contact.
How Callback Scams from 02 8910 5418 Work
When you call back a number after receiving an SMS from 02 8910 5418, you may encounter several scenarios. The scammer could claim to be from your bank, the ATO, a parcel delivery service, or a utility provider. Some callers establish false urgency by claiming account suspension, outstanding debts, or held packages. Once connected, they attempt to extract personal information, banking details, or payment credentials.
The advantage for scammers using this callback method is that YOU initiated the call, which can create a false sense of legitimacy. The SMS from 0289105418 may contain minimal information, forcing you to call for details - exactly what the scammer wants.
What to Do If You Receive an SMS from 02 8910 5418
If 02 8910 5418 or any unknown number sends you a message asking you to call back, follow these steps:
- Do not: Call the number back, click any links in the message, or reply to the SMS
- Do: Delete the message immediately and block the number
- Do: If the message claims to be from your bank, utility, or government agency, independently verify by calling the official number from their website or your billing statement
- Do: Report the SMS as spam to your mobile provider
- Do: Forward the message to 0429 999 888 (ACMA's spam reporting service) if your provider supports SMS forwarding
Why This Scam Works and How to Protect Yourself
Callback request scams succeed because they exploit trust in outbound calling. People are naturally more suspicious of incoming calls but less cautious when initiating contact themselves. The scammer banks on this psychological difference.
To protect yourself from 0289105418 and similar callback scams:
- Never call back numbers from unsolicited SMS messages, even if they appear to come from known organisations
- Always verify requests independently using official contact details
- Be aware that scammers can spoof legitimate-looking local numbers like 02 8910 5418
- Report suspicious messages to your phone provider and relevant authorities
- Consider enabling SMS filtering on your mobile device
How to Report 02 8910 5418
If you receive scam messages from 02 8910 5418 or any similar number, report it through these channels:
- Report to ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) at acma.gov.au or by forwarding the SMS to 0429 999 888
- Report to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au with details of the message and any attempts to contact you
- Report to your mobile provider's abuse team
- Share your experience on Reverseau to help other Australians identify this number
Community reports like the one received about 02 8910 5418 help build awareness of scam tactics and protect others from falling victim to similar attempts.
Help others by sharing your experience with (02) 8910 5418!
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Scam message asking me to call the number back
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WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
Why is a callback request from 02 8910 5418 considered a scam?
Callback request scams use SMS to trick you into calling a scammer's number. Instead of calling you directly (which raises suspicion), the scammer sends a message asking you to call back. This reverses the flow and makes the scammer appear legitimate. The contributor who reported 02 8910 5418 received exactly this type of message - a request to call the number back. Legitimate organisations rarely ask you to call back via SMS without providing context about why.
What happens if I call back 02 8910 5418?
If you call back 0289105418, you may reach someone claiming to be from your bank, the ATO, a delivery company, or a utility provider. They'll create a false sense of urgency - claiming account issues, outstanding debts, or held packages - to pressure you into providing personal information or payment details. By calling back, you've confirmed your number is active, and you're more likely to engage because you initiated the contact.
Should I report SMS messages from 02 8910 5418 to my phone provider?
Yes. Forward the message from 02 8910 5418 to your mobile provider's spam/abuse reporting system. You should also forward it to 0429 999 888, ACMA's SMS spam reporting number. This helps authorities track patterns and block similar scams. Reporting SMS from 0289105418 contributes to protecting other Australians from the same callback scam tactic.
Is 02 8910 5418 a real number or spoofed?
02 8910 5418 (0289105418) is a real NSW local service number allocated to Primus Telecommunications Pty Limited. However, scammers frequently spoof legitimate-looking local numbers. Just because the number appears genuine doesn't mean the sender is legitimate. The callback request itself - asking you to call back without providing details - is the scam indicator.
How can I verify if a callback request from 02 8910 5418 is legitimate?
Never verify by calling back the number in the SMS from 02 8910 5418. Instead, independently look up the official contact number for the organisation mentioned in the message. Call that official number to verify the request. For example, if the SMS claims to be from your bank, use the number on your bank card or their official website. This prevents you from accidentally calling the scammer back through 0289105418.
What should I do if I already called back 02 8910 5418?
If you've called back 0289105418 but didn't provide any personal or financial information, block the number and monitor your accounts. If you shared details like your name, address, bank account, or card information, contact your bank and credit card issuers immediately to report potential fraud. You should also report the scam to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au and ACMA at acma.gov.au with details of what information was compromised.