0402 158 101: Suspicious Voicemail Scam Alert

• Scam

Discover details about the suspicious number 0402 158 101 that users reported. Learn about the nature of this scam and how to handle calls from this number safely.

The phone number 0402 158 101 has recently been flagged as a suspicious number by Australian users, particularly due to a voicemail left in both Chinese and English. The caller claimed that the user's mobile phone was "under their name" and that it would be disabled in two hours due to abnormal use.

What the Users Reported

Users who encountered this contact often did not answer the call, yet they were left with unsettling voicemail messages. One such report, dated 11 November 2022, captured a discussion that included the phrase "Nǐ hǎo" (你好), which translates to "Hello." This was followed by alarming claims regarding the status of their mobile device.

Classification of the Number

Based on user feedback, it is clear that the number 0402 158 101 falls into the category of a suspicious voicemail scam. This type of scam typically involves threatening messages aimed at provoking fear, thereby tricking individuals into reacting hastily, often providing personal information or returning calls out of concern.

The Nature of the Scam

Voicemail scams like the one experienced with this number often include warnings about phone issues that do not exist. The intention behind such calls is to create a false sense of urgency, prompting the receiver to take rash actions. In this case, the claim of the phone being disabled in a short time frame is a classic tactic seen in various phone scams.

How to Handle Calls from 0402 158 101

• Do not engage: If you receive a call from this number, do not answer or return the call. Engaging can lead to further attempts by the scammers.
• Block the number: If you continue to receive calls, add it to your blocked numbers list to avoid future contact.
• Report the scam: Report any suspicious activity or calls to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or Scams Watch for further investigation.
• Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup: Use services like Reverseau to identify and gather information about unknown numbers.

In conclusion, the number 0402 158 101 exemplifies the dangers of voicemail scams that target unsuspecting individuals. It's crucial to stay informed and vigilant to protect yourself against such fraudulent activities. Remember, if it sounds too alarming to be true, it probably is.