0478 073 759 - Scam Alert: Phishing SMS Impersonating MyGov/ATO

• Scam

The number 0478 073 759 has been reported by users as a phishing scam attempting to impersonate MyGov and the ATO. Discover how to handle calls and SMS from this number to protect yourself.

In the digital age, protecting personal information has become paramount, and scams that exploit government agencies often target unsuspecting individuals. One such phone number causing quite the stir is 0478 073 759, which has been flagged as a phishing scam by users.

As reported by a vigilant user on 23 January 2023, this number has been linked to fraudulent SMS communications that appear to be from reputable entities such as MyGov and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). These messages are crafted to dupe you into providing sensitive personal information, supposedly in connection to your tax affairs or government services.

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a deceptive practice where scammers send messages, often appearing official, in an attempt to extract confidential information from you. In this case, the SMS is designed to look legitimate but is essentially a trap that leads you to a suspect domain aiming to harvest your data.

How to Identify a Phishing Attempt

Here are some tips to identify if a message or call might be a phishing attempt:

• Unsolicited Contact: If you received a message from an unknown number, be suspicious.
• Urgent Language: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pushing you to respond quickly.
• Error in Domain: Look closely at the sender URL or domain name, as scammers often slightly alter official domains.

What To Do If You Receive a Call or SMS From This Number

If you happen to receive a call or SMS from 0478 073 759, here’s how to handle the situation:

• Do Not Respond: Avoid replying to the message or engaging with the caller.
• Report It: You can report the number to Scamwatch Australia or your phone provider.
• Inform Others: Spread the word about the phishing attempt to help protect family and friends.

Utilising services like Reverseau can assist you in identifying unknown callers and avoiding potential scams, ensuring that you stay informed about who called you and protecting your personal information. The rise of such fraudulent numbers underscores the importance of vigilance in today's interconnected world. Always remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting yourself from deceitful practices!