0406 174 981: Scam Call – Impersonating Centrelink

• Scam

The phone number 0406 174 981 has been reported as a scam calling itself Centrelink. Learn how to identify and handle calls from this number effectively.

Identifying the Threat: 0406 174 981

The phone number 0406 174 981 / 0406174981 has garnered a number of reports from users across Australia, predominantly characterised as a scam that impersonates Centrelink. Such calls often aim to deceive individuals into providing personal information, posing significant risks to their privacy and security.

The Deceptive Nature of the Call

Users have consistently reported receiving calls from 0406 174 981 / 0406174981 claiming to be from Centrelink. One particular report from the 1st of June 2022 highlighted how the caller requested the recipient to return the call to the official Centrelink number, 132468, through a voice mail message. This is a well-known tactic used by scammers to create a false sense of legitimacy and urgency.

How to Handle Calls from 0406 174 981

• Ignore the Call: If you receive a call from this number, it is best to avoid answering. Legitimate organisations like Centrelink will never ask for sensitive personal information over the phone.
• Do Not Call Back: Dialling back the number could lead you to a scammer informant, which is best avoided. Always use officially provided contact numbers for any governmental services.
• Report the Call: It’s wise to report such calls to the authorities. In Australia, you can notify the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) or Centrelink directly.

Stay Vigilant

Scams using bait like government services exploit the trust people inherently have in them. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and question any unexpected outreach. Never provide personal information until you have verified the identity of the caller through official channels.

Utilising services like Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia can arm you with valuable information about any number that’s causing you concern, such as 0406 174 981 / 0406174981. Empowering yourself with these tools will help you navigate and understand who called you in Australia, ensuring you protect your privacy.