0489 933 986: Suspicious Scam Call Claiming to be Australian Bureau of Statistics

• Scam
• Spam

The number 0489 933 986 has been reported as a suspicious scam call, claiming affiliation with the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This article provides insights on how to identify and handle such calls effectively.

Understanding the Risks of 0489 933 986

The phone number 0489 933 986 / 0489933986 has raised significant concerns among recipients, leading to multiple user reports identifying it as a suspicious and likely scam number. Reports indicate that it poses as the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which could influence unsuspecting individuals into revealing personal information.

Classification: Suspicious Scam

This caller's modus operandi involves misleading tactics, where they attempt to pass themselves off as a legitimate government entity. For instance, one user on 04 July 2023 reported that the caller claimed to represent the Australian Bureau of Statistics but seemed to be operating from a call centre, raising instant red flags.

Insights from User Reports

• No message left: On 03 July 2023, a user received a call but reported that no message was left, prompting them to block the number immediately. This is a common tactic among scammers testing if the number is active.
• Phishing attempts: The same user on 04 July mentioned how the caller hung up when met with reluctance to answer questions, indicating the caller's intent was likely not to gather statistical data, but more sinister motives like phishing.
• Spam declarations: Another report on 05 July outlined a simple voicemail asking to leave a message, further hinting that it may be an automated spam call rather than any genuine inquiry.
• Direct scam recognition: A user confirmed the number as a scam on 25 August 2023, aligning with the community's growing acknowledgment of its dubious nature.

How to Handle Calls from 0489 933 986

If you receive a call from this number, it is advisable to:

• Do not engage with the caller. Hang up if you suspect it is a scam.
• Do not provide any personal or financial information.
• Consider blocking the number to prevent future calls.
• Report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
• Utilise services like Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia to verify the legitimacy of unknown callers.

As scams continue to evolve, it is crucial to remain vigilant. Keeping informed about numbers like 0489 933 986 / 0489933986 can help protect you and others from falling victim. Always remember to trust your instincts; if a call feels off, it probably is.