0480 039 143: Scam Alert - Data Harvesting Scheme

• Scam

The number 0480 039 143 has been reported as a scam targeting residents under the guise of a survey from Monash City Council. Learn how to identify such calls and protect your personal information.

Identifying the Scheme Behind 0480 039 143

The phone number 0480 039 143 / 0480039143 has generated considerable attention due to user reports categorising it as a scam. Specifically, individuals have indicated that the calls appear to come from Monash City Council, purportedly seeking to conduct a survey of residents. However, a closer examination of these reviews reveals a concerning data harvesting scheme.

Analysis of User Reports

User reviews consistently highlight a few alarming characteristics of calls from this number:

• Fake Identity: The callers claimed to be representatives of Monash City Council, employing an established entity's name to lend credibility to their inquiries.
• Data Harvesting: Questions posed during the so-called survey were not typical. Questions about personal details, such as age, marital status, and even financial information like mortgages, raise red flags for potential identity theft.
• Unprofessional Conduct: Many users noted that upon probing the caller for legitimacy, they often quickly ended the call, suggesting an unwillingness to provide proof of identity.

The Nature of the Scam

This particular scam seems to be centred around data harvesting, where individuals are coaxed into disclosing personal information under false pretenses. Identity theft is a prevalent risk with such malicious schemes, particularly when respondents share sensitive details unwittingly.

What to Do If You Receive a Call From This Number

If you receive a call from 0480 039 143 / 0480039143, here are prudent steps to take:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid answering personal questions. Genuine organisations typically do not require sensitive information through phone surveys.
• End the Call: If you suspect the call is a scam, hang up immediately. Blocking the number can prevent future unwanted calls.
• Report the Call: Notify appropriate authorities or use services like Reverseau to report suspicious numbers. This helps protect others from falling victim to similar scams.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 0480 039 143 / 0480039143 is certainly a number to be wary of, classified clearly as a scam based on user reviews. The sophistication of this data harvesting scheme underscores the importance of protecting your personal information and staying informed. For more details about who called you, consider using services like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia, to enhance your understanding of unfamiliar callers.