0433 240 374: Scam Alert – Chinese Visa Scam

• Scam

Have you received a call from 0433 240 374? This number is reported as a scam involving a fraudulent Chinese voice recording claiming to be from the immigration department. Learn how to handle such calls effectively.

In recent years, the rise of phone scams in Australia has concerned many, and users have reported a disturbing trend surrounding the number 0433 240 374. According to various reports, this number is associated with a Chinese-speaking voice recording that alarmingly poses as the immigration department.

The scam operates by creating panic, claiming that the recipient's visa is under immediate threat of cancellation. In a recent review dated 13 May 2019, a user reported that the automated message demanded a callback to pay supposed fees to re-apply for a visa that the caller never required. This tactic effectively capitalises on fear and misinformation, a hallmark of many modern phone scams.

Given this context, it's clear that 0433 240 374 falls squarely into the scam category, specifically the Visa Scam. Such scams have seen an increase as fraudsters utilise technology to impersonate authorities and instill fear to extract money or personal information.

So, what should you do if you receive a call from this number? Here are some clear steps to protect yourself:

• Do not engage: Do not call back or provide any personal details.
• Verify: If you're uncertain, contact the official immigration department through trusted channels for verification.
• Report: Notify the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or local authorities about the scam call.
• Use Reverseau: To find out more about other numbers you encounter, consider using our Reverse Phone Lookup Australia tool.

As this scam illustrates, awareness and education are your best defence. Remember, legitimate authorities will never ask for sensitive information over the phone. By staying informed and vigilant, you can help combat these threats.