0435 876 521: Scam - MyGov Phishing Attempt

• Scam

Beware of the phone number 0435 876 521, reported as a scam related to MyGov phishing. Learn how to handle calls from this number and protect your personal information.

Understanding the Scam Behind 0435 876 521

The phone number 0435 876 521 / 0435876521 has raised significant red flags among users, being reported as a potential scammer attempting to impersonate MyGov. Such scams are particularly dangerous as they misuse trusted government services to lure individuals into providing personal information.

What Users Are Reporting

On 31 March 2023, a user reported receiving a suspicious message from 0435 876 521 / 0435876521 claiming they were eligible for a large payout of AUD 29,497.22. This message directed them to a dubious link, hoping to trick recipients into divulging sensitive personal details. Scammers often fabricate enticing offers to incite urgency and bypass the victim's skepticism.

The Nature of the Scam

This tactic falls under the category of phishing, where fraudulent entities pose as legitimate organisations to extract personal or financial information. In this case, the scammer posed as MyGov, leveraging its reputable image to gain trust and manipulate victims into acting quickly without thorough scrutiny.

How to Handle Calls from 0435 876 521

• Do Not Respond: It's crucial to avoid engaging with this number. Responding may lead to further unwanted contact or attempts to extract more information.
• Verify the Source: If you receive communication claiming to be from MyGov, it’s wise to contact them directly using official channels rather than through any provided links or numbers.
• Report the Incident: If you believe you are a target of this scam, report the incident to authorities such as Scamwatch or the ACCC to help combat this fraudulent behaviour.
• Use Reverseau: Utilize tools such as Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia to determine whether numbers have been reported by others.

In conclusion, if you encounter the number 0435 876 521 / 0435876521, be cautious. This is a clear example of a scam designed to exploit unsuspecting individuals. By understanding the warning signs and protecting your information, you can safeguard yourself against potential fraud.