0480 024 531: Scam – Frankston City Council Impersonation

• Suspicious

The phone number 0480 024 531 has been reported as a scam tied to impersonation of the Frankston City Council. Learn how to handle calls from this number effectively.

Identifying the Nature of 0480 024 531

The number 0480 024 531 / 0480024531 has recently come under scrutiny, with multiple reports from users suggesting that it is involved in suspicious activities. The calls are characterised by claims of conducting surveys related to the population of Victoria and inquiries about home ownership details, supposedly on behalf of the Frankston City Council. This has raised alarms and prompted individuals to question the legitimacy of the caller.

Classification: Scam

Based on user reviews, 0480 024 531 / 0480024531 is classified as a scam, specifically an impersonation scam. In this instance, callers purport to be from the Frankston City Council, requesting personal information ostensibly for statistical or locational databases. This type of scam preys on the trust of individuals by leveraging the authority of local governance.

The Dangers of Impersonation Scams

Impersonation scams are not only irritating but can also lead to serious issues like identity theft. The caller’s ability to mention specific names and suburbs raises concerns about how personal information is purportedly being used or accessed. If someone hangs up upon resistance or inquiry about verification, it is a clear indication of the scam's fraudulent nature.

How to Handle Calls from 0480 024 531

If you receive a call from this number, consider the following tips:

• Do Not Share Personal Information: Genuine representatives from councils or government organisations will never ask for sensitive details over the phone.
• Verify Caller Identity: Ask for the caller's official contact information and hang up. Contact the Frankston City Council directly through known channels to confirm if the call was legitimate.
• Report the Call: Report the number to consumer protection agencies or platforms like Reverseau, helping to warn other Australians about potential scams.

In conclusion, if you are uncertain about a call, utilising services like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can prove beneficial to determine the legitimacy of the number. Remember to stay vigilant, and don't hesitate to take action to protect your personal information.