0436 699 393: Scam Alert - Medicare Phishing Attempt

• Scam

The number 0436 699 393 has been reported as a scam related to Medicare. If you receive a message from this number, do not engage with it. Learn how to identify such scams and protect yourself.

Understanding the Risk: 0436 699 393

Recently, the number 0436 699 393 / 0436699393 has garnered attention from concerned Australians due to its association with a phishing scam targeting Medicare account holders. Users have reported receiving dubious messages purporting to be from Medicare, containing alarming claims regarding account anomalies and the potential disruption of coverage.

The Nature of the Scam

The scam under investigation involves unsolicited messages that typically arrive at odd hours, as seen with a recent report dated 29th June 2024. One user received a text at 1:15 am, warning about a "possible disruption in coverage" and suggesting a need to click on a link for more information. This is a classic tactic used by scammers to elicit personal information or install malware on devices.

Why It’s Classified as a Scam

This classification stems from several key factors:

• Unsolicited Communication: Legitimate organisations, such as Medicare, typically do not contact individuals outside standard business hours regarding sensitive information.
• Urgent Call to Action: The message creates a sense of urgency — a hallmark of scams designed to provoke hasty decisions.
• Suspicious Links: Legitimate communications from government services do not direct users to external links. Clicking such links can jeopardise personal and financial security.

How to Respond to Calls or Messages from 0436 699 393

If you encounter a message or call from 0436 699 393 / 0436699393, it is crucial to remain cautious. Here are steps to follow:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid clicking on any links or responding to the message.
• Report the Scam: Notify the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) through their Scamwatch website or other relevant authorities.
• Inform Medicare: Contact Medicare directly using official contact numbers to verify if your account is ever in jeopardy.
• Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup Australia: If uncertain about a number, utilising services like Reverseau can help confirm its legitimacy and avoid scams in the future.

Other users are encouraged to take these precautions seriously and share their experiences to help warn others. In today's digital age, scams like these are increasingly sophisticated, necessitating awareness and vigilance from Australians.