0498 183 093: Suspicious Robocall Claiming to be from the Chinese Embassy

• Scam

The phone number 0498 183 093 has been reported by users as a suspicious robocall originating from the Chinese Embassy, related to scholarship offers. Here’s how to identify and handle such calls.

Understanding the Suspicious Robocall from 0498 183 093

If you've received a call from 0498 183 093 / 0498183093, chances are you were met with an unusual and potentially alarming message. Reports indicate that this phone number is linked to a robocall, purporting to be from the Chinese Embassy. The automated message suggests that the Chinese Government is offering scholarships for the upcoming 2023 - 2024 school year, and frequently transitions into Chinese language prompts, leaving many recipients confused and uncertain.

Classification: Suspicious

Based on user experiences, we categorise 0498 183 093 / 0498183093 as a suspicious number. Several different factors contribute to this classification:

• Robocall Nature: The call is automated, which is often a hallmark of scams attempting to reach as many individuals as possible without personal engagement.
• Unverified Claims: The call claims to be affiliated with a reputable institution—the Chinese Embassy—but offers no verification or credible follow-up information.
• Previous Similar Reports: Users have noted receiving similar calls in the past, indicating a pattern of potentially fraudulent activity.

Types of Scams Associated

This type of robocall can fit into broader categories of educational or scholarship scams that prey on individuals seeking opportunities. Scammers often use the guise of legitimate organisations to elicit personal information or financial details by instilling a sense of urgency or excitement.

How to Handle Calls from 0498 183 093

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

• Do Not Engage: Hang up immediately. Engaging with the automated call could lead to further unwanted communication.
• Report the Number: Use platforms such as Reverseau to report the number and warn others about it.
• Stay Informed: Familiarise yourself with common scams and how they operate to avoid becoming a victim in the future.

It is always best to remain cautious when dealing with unknown numbers, especially those promising services or rewards that seem too good to be true. If you are unsure 'who called me Australia?', using a reverse phone lookup can provide you with essential details and aid in your decision-making process regarding suspicious calls. Stay safe and vigilant!