0421 249 730: Scam Alert - MyGov ATO Phishing Attempt

• Scam

Beware of 0421 249 730. This phone number has been reported for sending fraudulent messages claiming to be from MyGov regarding unclaimed money. Learn how to identify and handle such scams effectively.

Understanding the Scam Behind 0421 249 730

The phone number 0421 249 730 / 0421249730 has recently raised alarm bells among Australian users as a suspected scam operation. Reports suggest that this number sends unsolicited messages impersonating MyGov, which raises significant concerns over phishing attempts.

Details of the Reported Scam

On 16 May 2023, a user received a suspicious message stating, "There is total $13,566 Lodgment to claim on your MyGov Acct, Kindly visit HTTPS://NONOTIXATE.CL/MYGOV-ATO/ to Confirm." This message is a classic example of a phishing scam designed to steal personal information. The lure of a substantial amount of unclaimed money is a tactic often used by cybercriminals to prompt recipients to click on harmful links.

Identifying a Phishing Scam

Phishing scams, like the one potentially originating from 0421 249 730 / 0421249730, typically exhibit certain characteristics:

• Urgency: They often create a sense of urgency, pushing you to act quickly.
• Unfamiliar Links: Links in such messages usually direct you to unknown or dubious websites.
• Mismatched Tone: The language may seem unprofessional or poorly constructed, which can be a giveaway.
• Asking for Personal Info: Legitimate entities never ask for sensitive information via text messages.

Tips on Handling Calls and Messages from This Number

If you receive a call or message from 0421 249 730 / 0421249730, take the following steps:

• Do not engage: Do not reply or interact with the message or number.
• Verify the source: Instead, visit the official MyGov website directly or contact their customer service.
• Report it: Report the number to the Australian Cyber Security Centre or through your mobile provider.
• Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup: Tools like Reverseau can help identify unknown numbers, providing peace of mind.

As tempting as offers of unclaimed funds may seem, always remain vigilant. Scammers are continually honing their tactics, and awareness is your first line of defence. Make sure to protect your personal information and stay one step ahead of cyber threats.