- Spam
- Suspicious
- Scam
Beware of calls from 02 6172 0900, a number reported by users as part of a tax-related scam. This article provides an overview of the scam and advice on how to handle such calls.
Understanding 02 6172 0900 / 0261720900 and the Associated Scam
Receiving a call from 02 6172 0900? You’re not alone, as many Australians have reported this number as part of a deceptive telemarketing operation closely related to tax-related scams. Users have consistently identified it as a source of distressing messages purportedly from "Paul Mason," claiming to represent the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). However, reviews reveal a concerning trend of impersonation and fraudulent activity.
What Users Are Reporting
The descriptions provided by numerous users point towards a clear pattern – the impersonator uses intimidating tactics to create a sense of urgency regarding supposed tax audits or issues. Common themes in these replays include:
- Automated messages requesting a call back, often insisting on returning the call urgently.
- References to tax audits that sound official but are filled with inaccuracies.
- An apparent disconnect between the caller's name and their actual accent, adding to the suspicion.
- Requests for personal information which are typical in scamming operations.
Identifying the Scam
So, how can you identify this as a scam? Real ATO communications are typically conducted through written correspondence or official phone numbers (such as 13 28 61 for personal inquiries). The clear discrepancies noted by users – such as mispronounced names, incorrect gender identification, and refusal to provide legitimate contact information – should raise red flags.
What You Should Do
If you receive a call from 02 6172 0900:
- Do not engage: If the call seems suspicious, it’s best not to engage with the caller or provide any personal information.
- Reach out independently: If you’re concerned about a legitimate tax issue, contact the ATO directly using official contact numbers.
- Report the incident: Follow up by reporting the call through official channels to help prevent others from potentially falling victim.
Conclusion
In summary, 02 6172 0900 / 0261720900 is linked to a prevalent scam targeting unsuspecting individuals with fears related to tax obligations. Always stay vigilant with unsolicited calls, and remember to use trusted sources when verifying information about your taxes. For a reverse phone lookup in Australia, websites like Reverseau can help identify the origins and claims made by callers.
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What Our Users Reviewed
Voice message July, inaudible, Another voice message 10/09/15from a Paul re. Tax audit. No mail received. Odd good to know others are listing this.
He's still active. Uses pressure/bluff tactics to intimidate. Convincing if you get flustered.
In Melbourne and got the same message on my answering machine recently whilst I was away on holidays. I thought it was odd as I use a tax agent to handle my tax and all enquires from the ATO should go through them. Thanks to all for posting on this site to reassure me that it is a scam.
A "Paul Mason" rang me today 21 August 2015 and said that the Australian Tax Office wants me to ring them. The voice was a heavy male with American or Indian accent, and I am sure it was a scam. The ATO office is 13 28 61 for individuals.
Got called from " Paul Mason" from ATO about Tax in Voicemail.
I called back 02 6172 0900...... No Answer on Voicemail..... Just SCAM.
Yep...got the same phone call from "Paul Mason" today. Based upon the comments listed by other people I have chosen not to return this call. Seems like a scam to me. The ATO would write to you regarding an audit or unpaid taxes. They would never call your home and leave a message on your answering machine.
I received an automated message which said to call Paul Mason of the Australian Taxation Office on 02 6172 0900 regarding a tax audit. I called the number. A man with a strong Indian accent answered - didn't sound like someone with the name Paul Mason. He didn't answer the phone as Paul Mason. He answered the phone as "Hello, Australian Tax Office". There was another Indian man talking in the background. I asked to speak to Paul Mason, he said "Yes, speaking" but without conviction that that was his real name. I asked what his call was about, he said "Are you Mr Adrian?" He got my gender wrong, I am female and he thought I was male. The real tax office would know my gender. He said "There is a tax evasion case against you. Have you heard of this case?" He didn't sound like a professional Tax Office employee. I asked for his contact number, he said "Badge number 51960". I asked for his address, he said "Tax Evasion Unit, Australian Tax Office headquarters Canberra". I asked for the address in more detail, he went silent then hung up the phone. Seemed like a scam.
Its another indian scam. Inteded for the elderly. New immigrants or brain dead people. Ignore it as so many others have had the same call. Always be wary when you get a call from an indian call center. Infact put a few insults in. Like their cricket team sucks!
Today, a 'Paul Mason' left a message on my phone about a tax issue concerning my wife. As I knew nothing of it, I called the number and he told me that he could only speak to my wife and that a letter was sent to my house, after which he confirmed my home address. He also gave an extension number #179 to reach him directly. About 30 minutes after receiving the first message, a second message was left, which I disregarded as a mistake on his behalf.
Had an electronic message to call a Paul Mason back on this number regarding a tax audit. We called after hours and left a message on the voice mail to say we'd called back. A male with a foreign accent (South American?) left another message to call back. Tried numerous times to call back only to hear the call sounding like it is being diverted to a busy line. I'm guessing scam.