0480 039 210: Scam Alert – Impersonating the Australian Bureau of Statistics

• Suspicious
• Scam

0480 039 210 is reported as a scam number impersonating the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Learn how to handle calls from this number and stay safe from potential tactics used to gather personal information.

Identifying the Threat: 0480 039 210

Calls from the number 0480 039 210 / 0480039210 have raised significant concerns among Australians, with users reporting activities that suggest a potential scam. Complaints predominantly associate this number with fraudulent practices impersonating the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Nature of the Scam

On 17 September 2024, users pointed out that the call claimed to originate from the ABS but quickly transitioned into personal questioning, prompting suspicions. The official ABS website warns individuals about such scams, emphasising that they will never ask for sensitive personal information over the phone. This indicates a clear attempt by scammers to gather personal data under the pretext of legitimate inquiry.

Common Reactions

Additional reviews highlight callers hanging up immediately after receiving an answer, suggesting that this could be more than just a simple mistake. These actions are often characteristic of scam calls where a real intention is to verify whether a number is active for future contact. Users are encouraged to recognise this as a potential red flag.

How to Handle Calls from This Number

• Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never provide your personal, financial, or sensitive details when in doubt about the caller’s credibility.
• Hang Up: If you suspect that a call is fraudulent, it is best to hang up immediately.
• Report the Call: Document the call details and report them to the relevant authorities, such as the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
• Utilise Reverseau: Conduct a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to investigate unknown numbers before engaging.

Conclusion

In summary, if you receive a call from 0480 039 210 / 0480039210, treat it with caution. The indication of this number being associated with a scam specifically targeting personal information under the guise of an official entity should prompt immediate action. Educating yourself on how to handle such situations will provide a layer of security against these fraudulent attempts.