- Suspicious
One contributor reported a phishing SMS from 04 0949 1168 (0409491168) containing a suspicious link. When they attempted to call back, the number was disconnected.
Phishing Link SMS Scam from 04 0949 1168
A contributor has reported receiving an SMS from 04 0949 1168 (also written as 0409491168) containing a sketchy link. The message prompted the recipient to click through to an unknown destination. When the contributor attempted to call the number back to verify its legitimacy, they discovered the line was disconnected - a common tactic used by scammers to avoid callback attempts and maintain anonymity.
This pattern is typical of phishing scams where callers use temporary or disconnected numbers to distribute malicious links via SMS. The fact that 0409491168 became unreachable after the initial message suggests deliberate abandonment of the number after the scam attempt.
What to Do If You Receive an SMS from 04 0949 1168
If you receive a text message from 04 0949 1168:
- Do not: Click any links in the message, reply to the SMS, or attempt to verify by calling the number
- Do: Delete the message immediately, block the number on your phone, and report it to your telecommunications provider
- Do: Forward the SMS to 0429 999 888 (ACMA's spam reporting line) for official investigation
Phishing links in SMS messages often lead to fake login pages designed to steal your banking credentials, personal identity information, or payment details. Never enter sensitive information into websites accessed via unsolicited SMS links.
Report Patterns
This is a mobile number allocated to Telstra Limited. The single report of 0409491168 describes SMS-based phishing activity, which differs from voice call scams. The contributor's attempt to verify the caller's identity by calling back (only to find the number disconnected) demonstrates the throwaway nature of numbers used in SMS phishing campaigns.
How to Report 04 0949 1168
Report this phishing attempt through multiple channels:
- Forward the SMS to 0429 999 888 (ACMA's official spam reporting service)
- Report to your mobile provider Telstra Limited directly through their customer support line
- Lodge a report with Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au, which tracks phishing and SMS scams nationally
- If you clicked the link or entered information, report to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au
- Help other Australians by reporting your experience with 04 0949 1168 on Reverseau
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Got a text with a sketchy link, tried calling back and number was disconnected
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WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
Why was the number disconnected when I tried to call 04 0949 1168 back?
Scammers using 0409491168 often disconnect or abandon numbers shortly after sending phishing messages to avoid callback verification attempts. This is an intentional tactic to prevent recipients from confirming whether the sender is legitimate. The quick disconnect also makes it harder to trace the scammer's location or identity.
What happens if I accidentally clicked the link from 04 0949 1168?
If you clicked the link from 0409491168, monitor your accounts closely for suspicious activity. Change passwords for banking and email accounts immediately, especially if you entered any login details on the linked page. Contact your bank and report the incident to ReportCyber (cyber.gov.au) so authorities can track the phishing site and potentially shut it down.
How can I block SMS messages from 04 0949 1168?
Most Australian phones allow you to block numbers directly through your Messages or SMS app settings. On Telstra, you can also contact customer support or manage blocks through your account. Additionally, forwarding the SMS to 0429 999 888 helps ACMA identify and take action against the sender of 0409491168.
Is 04 0949 1168 a legitimate Telstra business number?
No. While 0409491168 is allocated to Telstra Limited's network, this does not mean Telstra sent the phishing message. Scammers often use legitimate networks or spoof numbers to appear credible. Telstra would never ask you to click unknown links via SMS. If you receive unsolicited links claiming to be from Telstra, verify by contacting Telstra directly on their official number.
Should I reply to the SMS from 04 0949 1168 to unsubscribe?
No. Do not reply to 0409491168 or engage with the message in any way. Replying confirms your number is active and monitored by a real person, which can lead to more scam attempts. Simply delete the message, block the number, and forward it to 0429 999 888 for ACMA to investigate.
What should I do if others in my contacts received the same message from 04 0949 1168?
If multiple people received similar phishing SMS from 0409491168, encourage them to report it to ACMA (0429 999 888) and their mobile provider. The more reports authorities receive about this number, the faster they can take action. You can also report your experience on Reverseau to warn other Australians about 04 0949 1168.