03 9997 0813: Scam Alert - Impersonation of Telstra and PayPal

• Scam

Beware of calls from 03 9997 0813, reported as scam attempts impersonating Telstra and PayPal. Learn how to recognise and handle such suspicious calls.

Introduction to 03 9997 0813

The phone number 03 9997 0813 / 0399970813 has raised significant concerns among users who reported receiving calls claiming to be from legitimate organisations like Telstra and PayPal. Upon review, calls from this number have been categorically classified as scams, specifically involving identity impersonation and potentially fraudulent activities.

Understanding the Scam

Based on user experiences dated 20 February 2025, this number appears to be part of a coordinated scam effort. The callers, posing as customer service representatives, have created a facade to gain trust and extract personal information from unsuspecting victims.

Common Scam Techniques Identified

• Impersonation: The callers claim to be affiliated with major companies such as Telstra and PayPal, which conveys a sense of legitimacy that can easily mislead individuals.
• Urgency Tactics: Both reports highlight a sense of urgency, with callers insisting on immediate action regarding supposed account issues. This creates panic, prompting quicker compliance from the victim.
• Refusal to Provide Verification: The insistence on using a specific website for verification purposes, along with a refusal to provide a callback number, is a strong indicator of scam behaviour. Legitimate companies will always offer customers multiple avenues for verification and support.

How to Handle Calls from 03 9997 0813

If you receive a call from 03 9997 0813 / 0399970813, it is highly advisable to take the following precautions:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid any conversation or verification of personal details during the call.
• Verify Independently: Hang up and use official channels to check any claims made during the call. For instance, contact Telstra or PayPal directly using their official websites or customer service lines.
• Report the Number: Inform organisations such as Reverseau or other consumer protection agencies about the scam to help others stay alert.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 03 9997 0813 / 0399970813 has been reported as a scam number, leveraging impersonation tactics to prey on individuals' fears concerning their telecommunication or financial accounts. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from potential scams. Always remember to utilise resources like Reverseau for a Reverse Phone Lookup in Australia to verify unknown callers.