0420 040 614: Scam Call Claiming to be Telstra's Security Department

• Scam
• Suspicious

Beware of the phone number 0420 040 614, which has been reported as a scam call posing as Telstra's security division. Read our guide on how to handle calls from this number.

Identifying the Nature of 0420 040 614

The phone number 0420 040 614 / 0420040614 has been flagged by users in Australia as a potentially malicious scam call. Reports indicate that the number is being used to impersonate Telstra’s security department, intent on alarming recipients into providing personal information. This type of scam, particularly when it comes from a number starting with “0420,” raises red flags, prompting a cautious approach to any communications received from it.

User Reports and Analysis

According to the feedback from Australians who have received calls from the number, the interactions seem unprofessional and aimless. One user reported that upon picking up, they were greeted with an eerie silence followed by an abrupt hang-up. This suggests the call may have been automated, designed to gauge whether the number is active. When attempting to return the call, users found the number disconnected—heightening the suspicion of deceit behind it.

The most concerning report was from a user who claimed to receive a call from someone pretending to be a representative of Telstra’s security department. Such tactics are typical of phishing scams, where fraudsters claim to represent legitimate organizations in an effort to steal sensitive data from individuals.

How to Deal with Calls from 0420 040 614

If you receive a call from this number, it is best not to engage. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Avoid Providing Personal Information: Never divulge personal, financial, or sensitive details over the phone, especially when you are unsure of the caller's identity.
• Do Not Call Back: Since users have reported that the number is disconnected, calling back may not yield beneficial results and could leave you vulnerable to further scams.
• Report the Call: Consider reporting the number to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the telecommunications provider for further investigation and to warn others.
• Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup Australia: Use services like Reverseau or similar tools to check the origin and credibility of unfamiliar numbers.

In summary, 0420 040 614 / 0420040614 appears to be part of a disturbing trend in fraudulent communications, disguising themselves as reputable entities like Telstra. By staying informed and cautious, you can help protect not only yourself but also your community from potential scams. Always be vigilant about who you share your information with and trust your instincts when dealing with unexpected calls.