0491 678 539 - Suspicious Automated Call from a Scam Agency

• Scam

The phone number 0491 678 539 has been reported as a suspicious scam call featuring an automated message from a so-called Chinese government agency. Learn how to identify these calls and what steps to take.

Uncovering the Truth About 0491 678 539

If you've received a call from 0491 678 539 / 0491678539, you're not alone. Reports indicate that this number is associated with suspicious automated messages pretending to be from a Chinese government agency operating in Australia. Such scams are becoming increasingly common, targeting unsuspecting individuals with alarming tactics.

What Happened?

A user reported on 22 March 2023 that upon answering the call, they encountered a robotic voice claiming to represent a Chinese government agency. The message prompted recipients to press specific numbers to continue, further indicating a deceitful strategy likely designed to extract personal information. The user’s immediate reaction was one of suspicion, particularly because they had no connection to any Chinese governmental body.

Classification: Scam Alert

This phone number is classified as a potential scam for the following reasons:

• No Legitimate Purpose: The claim of being from a Chinese government agency appears unfounded, especially for Australians who don't have any ties to such institutions.
• Automated Caller: The use of a machine voice is a red flag often associated with scams aimed at impersonating legitimate organisations.
• User Feedback: The concern expressed by various users, particularly mentioning the lack of relevance for Australian recipients, makes it clear this call is not legitimate.

How to Address Such Calls

Receiving a call from a number like 0491 678 539 / 0491678539 can be unnerving. Here are a few steps you can take to handle such situations:

• Don’t Engage: If you suspect a call is a scam, it’s best not to engage with the automated system or provide any personal information.
• Block the Number: Consider blocking this number to prevent further contact.
• Report the Call: Report these types of calls to the Australian Communications and Media Authority or your phone provider for further investigation.
• Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup: Tools like Reverseau can help you identify the source of unknown calls and protect yourself from potential scams.

As scam tactics evolve, staying informed is your best defense. Always remain cautious when receiving unsolicited calls, particularly those requesting personal information.