02 4017 0104 - ATO Tax Fraud Scam

• Spam
• Scam

The number 02 4017 0104 has been identified as a scam number purporting to be from the ATO. If you receive a call from this number, it's advisable not to engage and report it as a scam.

Understanding the 02 4017 0104 / 0240170104 Scam Reports

The phone number 02 4017 0104 / 0240170104 has caught the attention of many users, as it is associated with a fraudulent scheme impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Recent user reports from November 2018 reveal alarming patterns that indicate this number is indeed part of a scam operation targeting unsuspecting Australians.

Users Encountering the Scam

Several reports describe similar experiences where callers claimed to represent the ATO, alleging issues with tax returns. The modus operandi of this scam is particularly unsettling:

• In one instance, a user received a call from the number but noticed that the callers did not even possess basic personal details, raising suspicion about their legitimacy.
• Voicemail messages were reported that included threats of arrest warrants linked to imaginary tax fraud claims, enhancing the urgency and confusion for those receiving these calls.
• The broken English and poor grammar in messages revealed the unprofessionalism typical of scam operations, further hinting that this number is not a legitimate entity.

Why You Should Be Cautious

Calls from 02 4017 0104 / 0240170104 exemplify a type of scam known as the “tax fraud scare tactic.” In these convoluted schemes, scammers aim to instil fear to extract personal information or money from individuals. The characteristics evident from the user reviews include:

• Claims of tax issues without initial context or verification, which is not how the ATO typically operates.
• Urgent language that commonly prompts recipients to respond quickly, often through fear of legal consequences.
• Requests for personal information from the victim, which are always a red flag for scams.

How to Handle Communications from 02 4017 0104

If you receive a call from this number:

• Do not engage: Do not provide any personal information or attempt to callback. Legitimate organizations will not request sensitive information in this manner.
• Report it: Notify your local authorities or report the number to the ATO directly through their official communication channels.
• Use Reverseau: To avoid falling victim to these scams, consider utilising services like Reverseau for phone number lookups before returning any calls.

Being vigilant in the face of such scams is essential. For further assistance, always look up unfamiliar numbers, and trust your instincts—if something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Stay safe and informed!