- Scam
- Suspicious
Beware of calls from 02 6188 5640, reported by users as a scam impersonating the Australian Tax Office. Learn how to handle these calls and report them effectively.
Understanding the Scam Behind 02 6188 5640
The phone number 02 6188 5640 / 0261885640 has been flagged by numerous users as a fraudulent number claiming to represent the Australian Tax Office (ATO). This scam has garnered significant attention for its alarming messages that threaten potential legal action against the recipients.
Unpacking the Scam
From the reviews, a consistent theme emerges: the caller, identifying himself as James Appleton, threatens individuals with arrest for tax evasion. Victims report receiving voicemail messages declaring that a warrant is going to be issued unless they return the call immediately. However, this is a clear case of phishing—a deceptive tactic used to gather personal information or to intimidate unsuspecting individuals.
Common Traits of This Scam
- Impersonation: The caller pretends to be from the ATO, using a well-known institution's name to instil fear.
- Urgency: Messages create a false sense of urgency, pressuring individuals to act quickly without thinking.
- Threats: The mention of warrants and arrest is designed to evoke panic, pushing victims to comply.
What to Do If You Receive a Call?
If you receive a call from 02 6188 5640 / 0261885640 or any number making similar claims, here’s how to handle it:
- Do not call back: Engaging with the scammer can lead to further harassment or attempts to extract information.
- Report the call: You can report these types of scams to the ATO through their 'Report a Scam' line at 1800 008 540 / 00008540.
- Stay informed: Keeping yourself updated on common scams can better prepare you for recognising potential threats.
Conclusion
02 6188 5640 / 0261885640 is a known scam number attempting to exploit individuals by posing as the Australian Tax Office. By being vigilant and following the recommended steps, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these deceptive tactics. Remember, if you're unsure about a call, using services like Reverseau and Reverse Phone Lookup Australia can help you identify who called, giving you a clearer insight into potential scams.
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What Our Users Reviewed
Yes this number calls up and claims to be Australian Tax Office. Stating Tax invasion and asking up call back before a warrant is issued. I have reported it to ATO.
They have rang and left voice messsage twice in two days.
This number leaves a voicemail message from a caller claiming his name is James Appleton (but with a silly Apu Indian accent), from the Australian Tax Office. He claims you are being investigated for tax evasion, and a warrant is about to be issued for your arrest, unless you call them back. It is a SCAM. They don't know your name. Don't call back. Instead you can report the call to the ATO 'Report a scam' line.1800 008 540. [Submitted 18 Aug 2016].
I've been receiving these call for approx 5 weeks now, on the 02 61885640. Do they eventually go away?
Also had James Appleton, Australian Tax Office, leaving me a message about a warrant and threatening to arrest me. SCAM.
Got the same BS on my answering machine, same name James Appleton, can't get much more Anglo name than that but with the strongest Kraut accent ever. You Effing loser......! Jerk!
Just had same call. The name is James Appleton and he will tell you to ring back urgently 02 61885640 or there will be a Warrant for your arrest issued by the ATO.
This number calls with a voicemail message saying that you have been investigated by the Australian Tax Office for tax evasion, and a warrant is about to be issued for your arrest. Unless you call them back. It is a scam. You can report the call to the ATO 'Report a scam' line.1800 008 540.
11.48am 17.8.2016 - Phone Message on my answer message from ATO to call James Appleton with a warrant for my arrest. Big Scam, Scam, Scam, Scam, Scam. Do not ring back! Just hang up! They are such liars..................