0485 949 953: Scam Alert - Pretending to Be Telstra

• Scam

The phone number 0485 949 953 has been identified as a scam pretending to be Telstra. Read our guide on how to handle calls from this number and protect yourself from potential fraud.

Understanding the Nature of 0485 949 953

The phone number 0485 949 953 / 0485949953 has recently come under scrutiny, with reports categorising it as a scam. Specifically, users have highlighted that the caller claims to represent Telstra, aiming to deceive unsuspecting individuals. It’s crucial for Australians to be vigilant when receiving calls from unknown numbers, particularly ones like this that invoke trust by using well-known brand names.

Analysis of User Reports

On 7 February 2024, a user reported that 0485 949 953 / 0485949953 was involved in fraudulent activity. This is a common tactic among scammers, who often impersonate reputable companies and institutions to gain personal information or solicit payments. The fact that the caller poses as Telstra only adds a layer of urgency; many Australians rely on their telecommunications providers for their communication needs and may inadvertently become victims of such scams.

Types of Scams Typically Associated with This Number

Calls from 0485 949 953 / 0485949953 seem to be part of a larger scheme where fraudsters attempt to extract sensitive information by using techniques such as:

• Phishing: Asking for personal details under the guise of account verification.
• Service Cancellation Threats: Inducing panic by claiming services will be cancelled due to unresolved issues.
• Unauthorized Fees: Pressuring recipients to pay unexpected fees related to their alleged ‘account’.

What to Do If You Receive a Call from 0485 949 953

If you receive a call from this number:

• Do not engage with the caller. Hang up immediately.
• Do not provide any personal details or payment information.
• Report the number to relevant authorities, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or Scamwatch.
• Consider using a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia tool to identify and report such numbers ashore.

Staying Informed

Remaining informed about potential scams and knowing how to handle questionable calls is vital in today’s digital landscape. Always verify the authenticity of callers, especially those claiming to be from trusted organisations like Telstra. When in doubt, refraining from sharing any information is the safest route.

For more information about suspicious calls or to see who called you recently, use resources like Reverseau, enabling you to make safer calls and realise who is on the other end of the line.