0490 405 247 - Suspicious Call from an Impersonator

• Scam

The number 0490 405 247 has been reported as a suspicious caller impersonating Optus. Learn how to recognise such scams and deal with unwanted calls effectively.

Identifying the Intruder: 0490 405 247

The number 0490 405 247 / 0490405247 has raised alarms among users who have reported receiving unsolicited calls from this number. According to a review from July 24, 2024, listeners were greeted with a recorded message claiming to be from "Optus", stating that their phone would be disconnected in two hours due to abnormal usage. However, many recipients found this claim dubious, especially since they were not customers of Optus.

Classification of the Caller

Based on user feedback and the nature of the call, 0490 405 247 / 0490405247 can be classified as a suspicious number. This indicates an attempt to impersonate a well-known telecommunications company to instil panic and manipulate individuals to take action without due diligence.

Understanding the Scam

This particular type of scam is often referred to as a pretexting scam, where the caller pretends to be from a legitimate entity to trick individuals into disclosing personal information or making hasty decisions. In this case, the fake message aims to create a sense of urgency and fear surrounding the disconnection of services, potentially leading people to unknowingly invest in fraudulent services or reveal their personal details.

How to Handle Suspicious Calls

• Do not engage: If you receive a call from this number or similar, avoid engaging with the caller or providing any personal information.
• Verify the source: If it's supposedly from a company you use, directly contact their official customer service to verify the authenticity of the call.
• Report the call: Report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities or through platforms like Reverseau, which can help others identify and review these numbers.

In conclusion, be vigilant against unusual calls and remember that a reputable company will never pressure you in such a manner. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, it likely is.