02 6172 0122: ATO Tax Scam Call

• Scam

Beware of calls from 02 6172 0122. This number has been reported as a scam, impersonating the Australian Taxation Office. Learn how to handle these calls and protect yourself.

Understanding the Threat of 02 6172 0122

The phone number 02 6172 0122 / 0261720122 has been flagged by numerous users as a scam, specifically impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Reports suggest that callers claiming to be from the ATO are using threats and intimidation to collect personal information.

Classification of the Number

Based on the reviews received, we classify the calls from 02 6172 0122 / 0261720122 as a clear case of a scam, particularly a tax-related scam. Users reported receiving alarming messages about alleged tax evasion cases, with some of them claiming they could be arrested if they did not respond or provide sensitive information such as their Tax File Number (TFN).

The Nature of the Scam

Scammers often exploit the fear of legal consequences to manipulate individuals. This particular scam operates by creating a sense of urgency, prompting victims to disclose confidential information out of fear. Impersonation of government agencies, like the ATO, adds a layer of credibility to their threats, furthering the deception.

How to Handle Such Calls

• Do Not Provide Personal Information: Never share your TFN or any other personal details over the phone, especially if the call is unsolicited.
• Hang Up: If you identify that the call is suspicious, simply hang up the phone.
• Verify Caller Identity: If you are uncertain, contact the ATO directly using official channels to verify if the call was legitimate.
• Report the Scam: Ensure you report the incident to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) or Scamwatch to alert others and contribute to combatting these scams.

Conclusion

In summary, 02 6172 0122 / 0261720122 is categorically a scam number preying on unsuspecting Australians by impersonating the ATO. To protect yourself, remain vigilant, and apply the above measures whenever you suspect a fraudulent call. For those searching whether this call was genuine, consider using services like Reverseau for reverse phone lookup to identify the nature of unknown calls effectively.