02 6172 0811: Scam - ATO Warrant Threat

• Scam

The phone number 02 6172 0811 has been reported as a scam involving threats from the Australian Taxation Office. Learn how to handle calls from this number effectively.

Understanding the Threat from 02 6172 0811

The phone number 02 6172 0811 / 0261720811 has raised alarm bells among Australians, with multiple reports classifying it as a scam. Callers claiming to represent the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) have been threatening individuals with legal repercussions for alleged fraudulent activity concerning their tax file numbers.

What type of scam is it?

According to user reports, the scam typically involves a recorded message indicating that the recipient has a warrant for their arrest due to supposed outstanding debts to the ATO. In some cases, victims have been directed to pay hefty sums, such as $3,800, under the guise of resolving this fictitious debt.

Identifying the scam

Common signs that a call from this number is a scam include:

• Automated recording: Many scammers utilize pre-recorded messages to intimidate potential victims.
• Threats of arrest: Legitimate government departments will not threaten individuals with immediate arrest over the phone.
• Unsolicited contact: The ATO does not typically initiate contact in such a manner; they would correspond via official letters.

What to do if you receive a call from 02 6172 0811

If you receive a call from this number, it’s vital to stay calm and take the following steps:

• Do not engage: Do not provide any personal information or make any payments.
• Hang up: It’s best to end the call immediately.
• Verify independently: If you are genuinely concerned about your tax affairs, contact the ATO directly using their official contact information.
• Report the scam: Consider reporting the call to the appropriate authorities such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or Scamwatch.

This is another reminder to stay vigilant. Always conduct thorough inquiries using Reverseau or conduct a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to investigate unfamiliar numbers. Protect yourself from scams and don’t fall victim to fear-based tactics!