0492 218 816 - Suspected Scam: Gift Card Expiry Notification

• Scam

Have you received a message from 0492 218 816 claiming your Coles gift card is expiring? This phone number is suspected of being a scam. Learn how to handle calls and messages from it.

Understanding the Implications of Calling 0492 218 816

If you've stumbled upon the phone number 0492 218 816 / 0492218816, it's essential to be cautious. Based on recent user reports, this number appears to be involved in a scam targeting individuals through deceptive messaging regarding expiring gift cards, specifically from Coles.

What Type of Scam Is It?

The user review dated 15/05/2024 indicates that they received a text message at an unusual hour (2:56 AM), claiming their Coles gift card was expiring. This type of scam typically preys on the urgency and fear of missing out, prompting recipients to act quickly without verifying the legitimacy of the message. Such phony alerts often lead individuals to click on harmful links or divulge personal information, potentially exposing them to phishing attacks.

Why You Should Be Wary

The likelihood that 0492 218 816 / 0492218816 is linked to fraudulent activities is high due to the following reasons:

• Timing of Messages: Receiving messages in the early morning hours is often indicative of a scam.
• Content of Messages: Claims of urgency regarding expiring gift cards are a common tactic used by scammers.
• No Official Affiliation: Legitimate companies like Coles would typically not send such critical notifications via random text numbers.

What To Do If You Receive a Call or Message

Upon receiving a call or message from 0492 218 816 / 0492218816, consider the following steps for a safe approach:

• Do Not Respond: Avoid replying to the message or engaging with the sender.
• Do a Reverse Phone Lookup: Use websites like Reverseau for a detailed investigation of the number.
• Report the Scam: If you believe it's a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities to help protect others.

Conclusion

Given the information available regarding 0492 218 816 / 0492218816, the consensus suggests this number is best avoided. It would be prudent to remain vigilant and informed, utilising tools like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to uncover more about unknown callers. Your awareness is the first line of defence against these scams!