02 6188 6004: Scam - Fake ATO Threat

• Suspicious
• Scam

Beware of 02 6188 6004, a number reported as a scam impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Learn how to handle calls from this number and protect yourself from fraudulent threats.

Understanding the Threat Behind 02 6188 6004

The phone number 02 6188 6004 has been flagged by multiple users as a blatant scam, specifically impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The scam typically involves aggressive callers threatening victims with legal action for alleged tax fraud.

What Users Are Reporting

User reports from around April 2016 indicate a concerning pattern where callers claiming to represent the ATO would assert that individuals owed significant amounts of money, creating an atmosphere of panic and intimidation. This tactic is a common approach used by scammers:

• Threats of Legal Action: Callers claim victims face severe penalties or even arrest, which is highly problematic.
• Invasive Behaviour: Reports suggest that when individuals question the validity of the claims, callers become aggressive and hostile.
• Subsequent Harassment: Following the initial scam call, victims may receive continued harassment through messages from different numbers.

How to Handle Calls from 02 6188 6004

If you receive a call from 02 6188 6004:

• Do Not Engage: It is best to hang up immediately upon realising the call is suspicious.
• Do Not Provide Personal Information: Never divulge any personal or financial information over the phone to unverified sources.
• Report the Number: Contact your phone provider or report the scam to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or Consumer Affairs.

In summary, this number is not associated with the ATO and is designed to instil fear for financial gain. Stay informed and protect yourself against such scams by utilizing resources like Reverseau and performing a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia. Remember, if in doubt, it's safer to ignore and report than to engage.