0450 659 717: Scam - Medicare Refund Phishing Attempt

• Scam

0450 659 717 is a reported scam phone number claiming unclaimed refunds from Medicare. This article provides guidance on how to handle calls and texts from this number.

Analysis of 0450 659 717: Scam Alert

The phone number 0450 659 717 / 0450659717 has been flagged by users as part of a scam operation, specifically targeting individuals through deceptive messages. Commonly manifested as an SMS, this scam involves invitations to claim unclaimed refunds from Medicare—an enticing but fraudulent offer that aims to extract personal information from unsuspecting victims.

The Scam in Detail

Reports indicate that messages sent from 0450 659 717 / 0450659717 falsely suggest that recipients have an unclaimed refund awaiting them from Medicare, followed by a prompt instruction to click on a provided website link. Such unsolicited messages typically exhibit certain hallmarks:

• Urgency: The message often stresses a limited time to claim the refund.
• Link to an External Site: A crucial red flag is the inclusion of a hyperlink, which often leads to phishing sites designed to harvest sensitive information.
• Unauthorised Use of Trusted Names: Utilizing familiar institutions, such as Medicare, is a tactic used to manipulate recipients into believing the legitimacy of the proposition.

How to Handle Calls or Messages from This Number

If you receive a call or an SMS from 0450 659 717 / 0450659717, it’s imperative to take caution:

• Do Not Click on Links: Avoid clicking on any links included in the message. It can lead to websites that may compromise your personal data.
• Do Not Provide Personal Information: Legitimate entities will never ask for sensitive information through SMS or unsolicited calls.
• Report the Number: To protect yourself and others, report this scam number to the appropriate authorities or helplines, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

Conclusion

In light of the reports surrounding 0450 659 717 / 0450659717, it is advisable to exercise vigilance. Scammers often use tactics that exploit your trust in reputable organisations like Medicare. For further information on identifying risky phone numbers, consider using Reverseau or other Reverse Phone Lookup Australia services available to check who called you. Stay informed and protected against these deceitful tactics.