- Scam
One contributor reports 04 2098 1967 (0420981967) as part of a scam targeting Gumtree sellers with fake interest messages before disappearing.
Gumtree Seller Impersonation Scam Targeting 04 2098 1967
A contributor has reported 04 2098 1967 (also written as 0420981967) as part of an organised scam operation targeting Gumtree sellers. The report indicates this mobile number operates as part of a coordinated crew that uses deceptive tactics to exploit marketplace sellers, particularly those listing items on Gumtree.
The scam follows a deliberate pattern designed to appear like genuine buyer interest before the perpetrators vanish. According to the contributor's account of 0420981967, the operation involves bombarding sellers with "is it available" messages to create a false impression of legitimate customer engagement.
How the 04 2098 1967 Scam Operates
The contributor who reported 04 2098 1967 describes the methodology as a coordinated con. The approach begins with multiple "is it available" inquiries sent to sellers, creating the appearance of genuine marketplace interest. Once the seller engages or confirms product availability, the scammers drop out entirely without progressing to purchase or payment.
This pattern suggests the crew operating 0420981967 may be gathering information about active sellers, testing responsiveness, or setting up subsequent fraud attempts. The tactic of initial bombardment followed by disappearance indicates coordination among multiple numbers within the same crew, as noted in the report about 04 2098 1967.
What to Do If 04 2098 1967 Contacts You on Gumtree
If you receive messages from 04 2098 1967 through Gumtree or other marketplace channels:
- Do: Be cautious of buyers who send multiple "is it available" messages without moving toward purchase
- Do: Request immediate commitment to viewing or purchasing before sharing additional details
- Do: Use Gumtree's built-in messaging system and avoid sharing personal contact details early
- Do: Block 0420981967 if the conversation pattern becomes evasive or unproductive
- Do not: Share your full name, address, or banking details with unverified buyers
- Do not: Assume engagement means genuine buyer intent, especially after multiple "is it available" messages
Report Patterns and Contributor Details
The single report about 04 2098 1967 comes from a Gumtree seller who experienced the scam firsthand. The contributor characterises this number as part of a broader "dodgy crew," indicating awareness that 0420981967 operates within an organised group rather than as an isolated scammer. This suggests the crew may use multiple phone numbers in coordinated attacks on marketplace platforms.
The Vodafone mobile number 04 2098 1967 fits the profile of a burner or disposable phone used for short-term scam campaigns, which is common among organised fraud rings targeting online marketplaces.
How to Report 04 2098 1967
If you've been targeted by this number on Gumtree or another marketplace:
- Report to Gumtree: Use the platform's "Report User" or "Report Listing" feature to flag suspicious activity from 04 2098 1967
- Report to ACMA: Lodge a complaint with the Australian Communications and Media Authority at acma.gov.au, particularly if you receive unsolicited messages or calls
- Report to Scamwatch: Document your experience at scamwatch.gov.au, noting the specific messages and pattern from 0420981967
- Report to ReportCyber: If financial loss occurred or you believe it's part of organised fraud, report at cyber.gov.au
- Block the number: Add 04 2098 1967 to your phone's block list to prevent further contact
- Contribute to Reverseau: Share your experience with 0420981967 to help other Gumtree sellers stay alert
Help others by sharing your experience with 0420 981 967!
WRITE A REVIEWRatings Distribution
What Our Users Reviewed
Part of a dodgy crew that targets Gumtree sellers, bombards with is it available messages then drops out, full con
Help others by sharing your experience with 0420 981 967!
WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
Is 04 2098 1967 a legitimate Gumtree buyer?
No. A contributor reported 04 2098 1967 (0420981967) as part of a scam crew that targets Gumtree sellers. The pattern involves sending multiple "is it available" messages to create false interest before disappearing entirely, which is a red flag for fraudulent activity rather than legitimate buyer behaviour.
What should I do if 0420981967 messages me on Gumtree?
Treat 04 2098 1967 with extreme caution. Request immediate commitment to viewing or purchase rather than answering repeated inquiries. Use Gumtree's messaging only and avoid sharing your full name, address, or phone number. Block 0420981967 if the conversation becomes evasive or the buyer disappears after initial interest.
Why do scammers use 04 2098 1967 for Gumtree targeting?
The contributor's report indicates 04 2098 1967 is part of an organised crew exploiting the marketplace's messaging system. Mobile numbers like 0420981967 are often disposable or burner phones used for short-term scam campaigns because they can be abandoned quickly if reported, making them harder to trace.
Has 04 2098 1967 been used to scam sellers before?
One contributor has confirmed 04 2098 1967 (0420981967) operates as part of a coordinated scam targeting Gumtree sellers. The report describes a specific pattern of behaviour, suggesting the number may be used repeatedly against multiple sellers until it gets blocked or reported.
Where can I report 04 2098 1967?
Report 04 2098 1967 (0420981967) to Gumtree directly through their platform reporting tools, then lodge separate complaints with Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au and ACMA at acma.gov.au. If financial loss occurred, also report to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au to document organised fraud patterns.
Should I block 0420981967?
Yes. Block 04 2098 1967 immediately if you receive contact from this number, particularly if you're selling items on Gumtree. The contributor's report describes deliberate deceptive behaviour designed to exploit sellers, so blocking 0420981967 protects you from repeated contact and potential follow-up scam attempts.