02 6172 1118 - Scam Alert: Impersonating the ATO

• Scam

Beware of 02 6172 1118, a number reported by users as a scam impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Discover how to handle calls from this number and protect yourself.

Identifying the Scam Behind 02 6172 1118

The phone number 02 6172 1118 / 0261721118 has raised alarm bells among Australians, with multiple user reports categorising it as a scam. This number claims to represent the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and threatens serious consequences, including arrest for tax fraud. Such deceptive tactics are not new but have escalated in recent years.

The Nature of the Scam

According to reviews dated 25 and 26 November 2019, this number has been associated with fraudulent claims of tax liability. Scammers often use tactics such as intimidation and urgency to manipulate people into providing personal information or making payments under the threat of dire consequences. In this instance, the callers posed as ATO officials, leveraging the authority of a government body to instil fear in unsuspecting victims.

How to Handle Calls from 02 6172 1118

• Do not engage: If you receive a call from this number, hang up immediately. Do not provide any personal details or payment information.
• Verify independently: If you are concerned about your tax status, contact the ATO directly using the official contact information available on their website.
• Report the scam: Report any suspicious calls to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC). This helps authorities trace and eliminate fraudulent operations.

Protect Yourself with Reverseau

In an era of rising phone scams, using a service like Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia can be invaluable. When dealing with unsolicited calls, having access to user-reported information can guide you on who called and their intentions. Always be cautious of unknown numbers, especially those claiming authority or urgency.

Stay informed and vigilant, and remember—when in doubt, it's best to consult with trusted sources rather than responding to potential fraudsters.