0417 958 098: Scam Alert - Virus Removal Racket

• Spam

The phone number 0417 958 098 has been reported as a scam attempting to extract money under the guise of virus removal. This article discusses what to expect from such calls and how to handle them appropriately.

Identifying 0417 958 098: A Scam Call

The phone number 0417 958 098 / 0417958098 has garnered attention from users in Australia, primarily for its dubious nature. According to a user report dated 12 September 2022, a caller from this number requested money to 'remove viruses' from the recipient's device. This pattern typically signals a scam.

Understanding the Scam

This type of scam is commonly referred to as a "tech support scam." Scammers often call, claiming to be from legitimate companies and then pressure victims into providing personal information or making payments for fictitious services. In this instance, the caller's intent was clearly to mislead the recipient into thinking that their device was infected and that they could remedy the situation—at a price.

What You Should Do

Encountering a call from 0417 958 098 / 0417958098 could be unsettling. Here are some practical steps to handle it:

• Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from this number, it's best not to engage with the caller. They often rely on conversation to manipulate the situation further.
• Hang Up: Ending the call promptly cuts off their ability to extract information or money from you.
• Report the Call: Consider reporting the incident to your local consumer protection agency or the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). Scam calls can be logged, assisting in future identification and prevention efforts.
• Use Reverseau: If you're ever in doubt about a phone number, utilise a service like Reverseau or Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to seek clarity.

Conclusion

In summary, 0417 958 098 / 0417958098 is classified as a scam phone number aimed at exploiting individuals needing tech assistance. Stay vigilant and informed about such calls, as prevention is key in avoiding scams and securing your peace of mind.