02 4786 0135 - Scam Alert: Impersonating ATO and Threatening Arrest

• Scam
• Spam

Beware of phone number 02 4786 0135, reported as a scam impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) with threats of arrest. Learn how to handle such calls safely.

Phone Number 02 4786 0135: An Alarmingly Common Scam

The number 02 4786 0135 / 0247860135 has garnered a notably disturbing reputation among Australian callers. Users have reported this number as a scam, claiming it’s an impersonation of the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), with threats of arrest looming over unsuspecting victims. Defined by a series of coercive and fraudulent tactics, this number sets the stage for impersonating government officials, striking fear into its targets.

Understanding the Scam

Multiple reports indicate that individuals receiving calls from this number were greeted by a robotic voice declaring they have legal issues with the ATO. Messages typically threaten callers with arrest unless a specified sum—in some cases, $9800—is paid immediately through dubious digital means.

• Type of Scam: Impersonation of Tax Authorities
• Method: Robotic voice messages
• Warning Signs: Threats of arrest, urgency to send money

How to Deal with Such Calls

If you receive a call from 02 4786 0135 / 0247860135 or any similar number, it’s crucial to remain calm and remember that legitimate government agencies will not resort to intimidation or threats. Here are some steps you should take:

• Do not engage with the caller, and do not provide any personal or financial information.
• Hang up immediately if you suspect a scam; blocking the number can also prevent future calls.
• Report the call to relevant authorities, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or your local consumer affairs office.
• Consider utilising Reverseau for a phone lookup to verify suspicious numbers.

Stay Informed

Staying vigilant and informed about such scams is vital in today’s digital age. If you ever doubt who called you or the legitimacy of a call, services like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can provide clarity and assist in ensuring your safety. Trust your instincts; if a call sounds too alarming to be legitimate, it probably is.