0498 520 038: Scam Alert – Package Delivery Phishing Scheme

• Scam

Discover the details behind the phone number 0498 520 038, reported as a scam targeting Australians. Learn how to identify and handle messages from this number.

Identifying the Scam Behind 0498 520 038

The phone number 0498 520 038 / 0498520038 is a major concern among Australians, having been flagged multiple times by users as part of a fraudulent scheme. This number has been associated with deceptive SMS messages, which aim to trick recipients into divulging personal information or downloading harmful content.

Details of the Scam

Users have reported receiving text messages claiming that their 'orders' or 'parcels' are being held at depots or customs, with calls to action that invite them to click on links. One such message included, "Hello - Your order has been held at our forwarding depot. Please follow instructions here," followed by a suspicious link. Such messages are typical of phishing scams where the intent is to capture sensitive information or directly lead the victim to malware.

Common Tactics Employed

• Urgency and Alarm: Messages often imply an urgent situation, creating a sense of panic that prompts immediate action.
• Dodgy Links: Texts typically include links to external websites that are not legitimate. Clicking these can lead to the installation of malware or theft of personal data.
• Unsolicited Communication: Many users report being caught off guard by messages about deliveries they were not expecting, making it a clear indicator of a scam.

How to Handle Messages from This Number

It is crucial for anyone receiving messages from 0498 520 038 / 0498520038 to exercise caution. Here are some recommended steps:

• Do not click on any links provided in the message.
• Do not respond to the sender.
• Report the number to your mobile network provider and, if possible, to Scamwatch Australia.
• Consider blocking the number on your phone to prevent further messages.

Conclusion

In summary, 0498 520 038 / 0498520038 should be treated as a spam number associated with a package delivery phishing scam. For peace of mind, you can always conduct a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to verify suspicious numbers. Stay informed and protect yourself against these scams that are all too common in today’s digital landscape.