0406 171 916: Scam - Fraudulent Robo Call from "The Visa Department"

• Scam

Uncover the truth about phone number 0406 171 916, reported by users as a scam involving a fraudulent robo call. Learn how to handle similar calls effectively.

Understanding the Threat: 0406 171 916

The phone number 0406 171 916 / 0406171916 has recently emerged as a notorious source of concern among Australian residents. Recent reports categorise this number as a scam, specifically highlighting a problematic robo call allegedly originating from "The Visa Department." Users have voiced their experiences, indicating that the call claims there are unaccounted overseas fund transfers and pending eBay payments, raising immediate red flags.

What type of scam is it?

This number is associated with a sophisticated telephone scam where the caller pretends to represent a reputable financial institution. The tactic employed here is known as 'phishing for personal information'—scammers may use fear and urgency to elicit sensitive information from unsuspecting victims. The mention of eBay payments and overseas transactions is a common approach used to instill panic, pushing individuals to engage in conversations and inadvertently provide personal details which could lead to identity theft.

Dealing with fraudulent calls

If you encounter a call from 0406 171 916 / 0406171916 or a similar number, it is crucial to stay calm and take the following steps:

• Do not engage: Avoid providing any personal or financial information to the caller.
• Hang up: Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it's best to cut the conversation short immediately.
• Report the number: Consider using services like Reverseau to report the number and warn others. This contributes to a communal effort to unveil and dodge such scams.
• Check with your bank: If the call claims to be from your bank or financial institution, hang up and contact them directly to verify the legitimacy of the call.

Keeping Yourself Safe

In this digital age, it is essential to stay vigilant about such scams targeting the unsuspecting public. Always remember, legitimate institutions will not ask for sensitive information over the phone. Knowledge is power—familiarising yourself with phone scams is the first step towards protecting your personal data. If you want to know who called me in Australia, services like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can be helpful in determining whether a number is trustworthy.

In conclusion, be aware of calls from 0406 171 916 / 0406171916 and others like it. Empower yourself with information, stay informed, and help combat these fraudulent schemes together with the community's assistance.