02 9167 7019: Scam Call Impersonating Chinese Embassy

• Suspicious
• Scam

Beware of calls from 02 9167 7019, a number reported by users as a scam. This article discusses the nature of the call and tips on how to handle it.

Understanding the Scam Behind 02 9167 7019

The phone number 02 9167 7019 / 0291677019 has raised significant alarm among users in Australia, categorised as a scam due to multiple reports describing its suspicious behaviour. This article delves into the reports received about this number and provides guidance on how to manage calls from it.

User Reports and Scam Analysis

Reports indicate that those who answered calls from 02 9167 7019 / 0291677019 were met with claims that the caller was associated with the Chinese Embassy. Typically, these scammers begin the conversation in Chinese, only to hang up hastily when confronted in English, revealing their disingenuous intent. This clear cut-off affirms that the number is part of a well-organised scam attempt.

Nature of the Scam

From the information collated, it appears this scam revolves around ticket calls impersonating official bodies. Users reported being misled into believing that they had an unresolved issue with their supposed Optus account—fraudulent documentation that encourages panic and confusion. Such tactics are classic examples of social engineering, designed to extract personal information and create a sense of urgency.

Actionable Steps to Take

• If you receive a call from 02 9167 7019 / 0291677019, do not engage: Hang up immediately. Scammers thrive on interaction.
• Do not provide personal information: Legitimate organisations will never ask for sensitive data over the phone.
• Consider reporting the call: Inform local authorities or the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). They can provide further assistance.
• Use Reverseau: Utilize tools like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to identify unknown callers.

Conclusion

In summary, 02 9167 7019 / 0291677019 is associated with fraudulent activity, posing as the Chinese Embassy and misrepresenting itself as a legitimate caller. Users are advised to remain vigilant and use resources like Reverseau to verify suspicious numbers. By staying informed and cautious, we can protect ourselves and others from such scams.