0480 780 150: Scam Alert - Medicare Refund Phishing Attempt

• Scam

0480 780 150 has been reported as a scam number associated with Medicare refund phishing attempts. Stay vigilant! Here's how to handle calls from it.

Is 0480 780 150 / 0480780150 a Scam?

The phone number 0480 780 150 has recently come into the spotlight due to a reported scam involving a text message that impersonates Medicare. With the rise of scams aimed at exploiting sensitive information, it is crucial to stay informed about these fraudulent attempts.

User Reports Overview

On 26 January 2024, a user reported receiving a text message claiming to be from Medicare, providing a link to a supposed refund. Such messages are typically designed to lure individuals into revealing personal or financial information. Often, these scams lead to identity theft or financial loss if individuals fall for them.

Understanding the Scam

This particular scenario fits the classic pattern of a phishing scam. Phishing scams involve deceptive communications that aim to trick the recipient into providing sensitive data, like banking details or Medicare numbers. Scammers often use well-known organisations, such as Medicare, to lend credibility to their messages. Hence, recipients might readily open the link under the assumption that it is legitimate.

How to Handle Calls or Messages from this Number

• Do Not Respond: If you receive a call or text from this number, do not engage with it. Any direct communication may further verify your number to the scammers.
• Do Not Click Links: Avoid clicking on any links provided in such messages. This can lead to malware installation or other security breaches.
• Report the Number: If you receive communications from this number, it is advisable to report it to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the relevant authorities.
• Use Reverse Phone Lookup: Tools like Reverseau can aid in identifying unknown numbers and provide insight into whether they are commonly reported as scams.

Conclusion

Given the surrounding reports and the nature of the message linked to 0480 780 150 / 0480780150, it is classified unequivocally as a scam. Always be cautious when receiving unsolicited messages, especially those that urge you to click on links or provide personal information. Remember, scams can happen to anyone, and being informed is the first step in protecting yourself.