0439 230 897: Scam Alert - Medicare Phishing Attempt

• Scam

Beware of 0439 230 897, reported as a scam number claiming to be from Medicare. This article provides insights on how to recognise phishing attempts and what to do if you receive a call or message from this number.

Understanding the Scam Behind 0439 230 897

The phone number 0439 230 897 / 0439230897 has recently been flagged by users as a suspicious entity, with particular reports highlighting its association with fraudulent activities. Most notably, one user reported that they received a message on 24 May 2024, claiming to be from Medicare, alerting them to suspicious activity on their account and prompting them to click on a link within the text message.

Phishing Attempt: What You Need to Know

Phishing scams are deceitful tactics used by fraudsters to obtain sensitive information by masquerading as trustworthy entities. In this case, the scammer is posing as a representative from Medicare, an institution that many Australians trust regarding their health information. This type of scam typically involves requesting the victim to update their information or investigate suspicious activity by clicking on a link—an action that often leads to malicious websites designed to steal personal details.

Identifying a Phishing Scam

To safeguard yourself against such scams, keep an eye out for the following red flags:

• Unsolicited Messages: If you did not initiate contact with any government agency like Medicare, be wary of communication from unknown numbers.
• Urgency in Language: Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to prompt rapid action.
• Links and Attachments: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious texts or emails.
• Request for Personal Information: Legitimate organisations will never ask for sensitive information through unsecured means.

How to Handle Calls or Messages from 0439 230 897

If you receive a call or text from 0439 230 897:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid replying to the message or calling the number back.
• Verify: Contact Medicare directly using official numbers to inquire about any perceived issues with your account.
• Report: Report the number to Scamwatch or the Australian Cyber Security Centre to help combat these fraudulent activities.

Conclusion

Always be cautious with unfamiliar phone numbers and potential scams. By utilising resources like Reverseau or Reverse Phone Lookup Australia, you can identify who's calling and protect yourself from falling victim to phishing attempts like those associated with 0439 230 897 / 0439230897.