- Scam
Community report for 08 7937 1173 (0879371173): Caller impersonated Microsoft, knew recipient's name and address, requested remote access for fake PC reset.
Microsoft Impersonation Reports for 08 7937 1173
A contributor has reported receiving a call from 08 7937 1173 (also written as 0879371173) in which the caller impersonated Microsoft technical support. The caller demonstrated knowledge of the recipient's name and address before requesting permission to remotely access their computer for a supposed system reset. This is a classic tech support scam tactic designed to establish false credibility and extract system access.
The call originated from a Northern Territory-based local service number allocated to Symbio Networks. The fact that the caller possessed personal information adds a layer of sophistication to the impersonation attempt, suggesting the number may be part of a targeted campaign using data from previous breaches or compromised lists.
What the Caller from 08 7937 1173 Claimed
According to the report, the caller from 0879371173 claimed to represent Microsoft and requested a remote reset of the recipient's computer system. The caller had already researched the target, knowing their name and address before the call began. This pre-call research is designed to bypass initial scepticism and make the impersonation appear legitimate.
The contributor ended the call by mentioning they used a Mac, at which point the caller from 08 7937 1173 hung up abruptly. This immediate disconnection suggests the scammer's script or targeting criteria didn't account for non-Windows devices, revealing the opportunistic nature of the campaign.
How to Identify and Respond to Calls from 08 7937 1173
Microsoft does not proactively call customers to fix computer problems. If you receive an unsolicited call from 08 7937 1173 or any number claiming to be Microsoft technical support, treat it as a scam regardless of what personal information the caller mentions.
- Do not: Allow remote access to your computer, provide your name, address, payment details, or any personal information
- Do not: Follow the caller's instructions to open control panel, command prompt, or any system settings
- Do: Hang up immediately without engaging further
- Do: Block the number 08 7937 1173 on your phone to prevent future calls from 0879371173
- Do: Verify any legitimate technical issues by contacting Microsoft directly through their official website, not by calling a number the caller provides
Why Scammers Know Your Personal Details
The caller's knowledge of the recipient's name and address is not evidence of legitimacy. Data breaches, purchased contact lists, or public records can provide scammers with this information before they call. Legitimate tech support companies will not use personal details to persuade you to grant remote access to your device. If you've received a call from 08 7937 1173 that mentioned information about you, this increases the likelihood that your details are on a targeted scam list and you may receive additional calls from 0879371173 or similar numbers.
How to Report 08 7937 1173
- Report the call to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au with as much detail as you can provide, including the date and time of the call from 08 7937 1173
- File a complaint with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) at acma.gov.au to report illegal telemarketing and scam calls
- If your personal information was compromised during the call, check your account security on any online services and consider reporting to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au
- Add 0879371173 to your phone's block list to prevent future calls from this number
- Share your experience on Reverseau to help other Australians identify and avoid this scam number
Protect Your Computer from Tech Support Scams
Tech support scams targeting 08 7937 1173 callers typically follow this pattern: initial call with personal details, request for remote access, installation of malware or fake security software, payment demands, or credential theft. Once a scammer has remote access to your computer, they can steal banking credentials, install ransomware, or use your device for further criminal activity.
- Enable two-factor authentication on all important accounts to limit damage if credentials are compromised
- Never grant remote access to anyone who calls you unsolicited, regardless of what they claim
- Keep your operating system and antivirus software updated to patch security vulnerabilities
- If you accidentally allowed remote access before realising it was a scam, disconnect from the internet immediately and contact your IT provider or local computer repair service
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What Our Users Reviewed
Asked for Microsoft reset, knew my name and address, hung up abruptly when I said I'm a MAC user
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WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
Should I answer calls from 08 7937 1173?
No. If 08 7937 1173 (0879371173) calls you, let it go to voicemail. Microsoft, Apple, and legitimate tech companies do not call unsolicited to fix your computer. Answering only confirms your number is active and may lead to repeated calls from 0879371173 or similar numbers.
The caller from 0879371173 knew my name and address - doesn't that mean it's legitimate?
No. Scammers use personal information purchased from data breaches or public records to build credibility before attempting the impersonation. The fact that 08 7937 1173 had your details actually makes it more concerning, as it suggests you're on a targeted scam list. Legitimate companies will never use personal information to convince you to grant remote access.
What happens if I give remote access to someone from 08 7937 1173?
If you granted remote access to a caller from 0879371173, immediately disconnect your computer from the internet and contact a trusted local IT technician or your computer manufacturer. Scammers can install malware, steal banking credentials, access private files, or lock your device for ransom once they have remote access.
How did the scammer get my phone number and personal information?
Your details may have come from a data breach, purchased contact list sold to scammers, public records, or previous interactions with companies that experienced security breaches. The caller from 08 7937 1173 likely purchased or accessed a list of targets before making calls, which is why they already knew your name and address.
What should I do if I've already engaged with someone from 0879371173?
If you provided any information or allowed remote access before realising 08 7937 1173 was a scam, disconnect your device from the internet, report the incident to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au, and contact your bank if any financial details were shared. Run a full antivirus scan using a trusted tool once you've secured your accounts.
Is this number still active, or has it been shut down?
The number 08 7937 1173 (0879371173) was last reported in early April 2026. Scammers often rotate through numbers or pause campaigns temporarily, so even if this specific number goes inactive, similar impersonation calls may continue from other numbers. Always remain sceptical of unsolicited tech support calls regardless of the number.