02 9789 6917 - Scam Alert: Suspicious Government Incentive Scheme Caller

• Suspicious
• Scam

Beware of calls from 02 9789 6917, reported as a scam related to a Government Incentive Scheme. Learn how to protect yourself from potential identity theft.

Understanding the Calls from 02 9789 6917

The phone number 02 9789 6917 / 0297896917 has been reported by multiple users as a suspicious caller offering what appears to be a fraudulent Government Incentive Scheme. Based on the reviews, this number is categorized as a scam, specifically aimed at potential identity theft.

What Are Users Reporting?

In early October 2016, a user described an interaction where a woman offered assistance with a Government Incentive Scheme, ostensibly aimed at individuals approaching retirement. The conversation included questions about household income, employment plans, and personal details, albeit not as invasive as birth dates or addresses. However, the odd request for a postcode coupled with the caller's inability to be reached upon calling back (the number was found to be disconnected) raised significant red flags.

Identifying the Scam

This scam fits a recognised pattern wherein callers pose as representatives of government programs, soliciting personal and financial information under the guise of providing financial support or benefits. The information requested, such as income details and employment stability, suggests an ulterior motive of enabling identity theft through falsified loans or financial processes.

How to Handle Calls from 02 9789 6917

• Do Not Share Personal Information: Never divulge sensitive information such as your full name, social security number, or financial details over the phone, especially if the call is unsolicited.
• Research the Caller: Use a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia service to check the legitimacy of the number.
• Report the Call: If you suspect that a call is a scam, report it to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) as well as other relevant authorities to help prevent further incidents.

Conclusion

While it can be unnerving to receive a call from an unknown number such as 02 9789 6917 / 0297896917, always remember to stay vigilant. Scammers often use tactics that seem legitimate to extract personal information for nefarious purposes. If you’re in doubt, it’s always best to hang up and verify independently.