A fresh new scam has emerged in Australia, folks, and this one is pretty strange. According to a statement from ScamWatch, people have reported receiving text messages asking for urgent help, only to be met with a disturbing recording when they call the number.
[jwplayer y8ab0soF]
The messages usually say something like “please call me back right away. It is an emergency. I need your help!” The number generally looks like a standard Australian mobile number, but when called, folks have been met with an abusive recording.
“People who have called the number back report being verbally abused by a recording on the other end,” the ScamWatch statement says.
“This is a new and emerging issue. While people have not yet reported losing money as a result of these calls, you may find the content of the recording distressing. Scamwatch therefore advises that you exercise caution or do not respond to these text messages.”
In other words, it could be a weird way of collecting active mobile phone numbers, but no one really knows what the aim of the bizarre scam actually is. According to one person who has heard the message, the swearing goes on for “well over five minutes,” they told police.
It’s a pretty weird one, but in any case, it’s best to ignore the texts if you receive them.
