02 8006 0696: Scam - Criminal Extortion Impersonating the ATO

• Scam

The number 02 8006 0696 has been reported as a scam, impersonating the Australian Taxation Office. This article offers guidance on handling calls from this number and protecting yourself from such fraudulent activity.

Understanding the Threat of 02 8006 0696

The phone number 02 8006 0696 / 0280060696 has raised significant concerns, with numerous reports categorising it as a hazardous scam. Victims have described experiences that highlight a pattern of deceitful practices designed to exploit individuals through fear and intimidation.

A Deep Dive into the Scam

According to user reports from 22 January 2019, calls from this number typically involve a computer-generated voice claiming to be from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Callers have stated they were threatened with arrest for alleged tax violations, embellishing their approach with a fabricated sense of urgency. Such tactics are a hallmark of criminal extortion scams, where the cons aim to instill fear to extract money from unsuspecting victims.

Recognising the Signs

• Impersonation: The callers faux identity as representatives of the ATO is deliberately misleading.
• Threatening Language: Using intimidation by suggesting legal consequences such as arrest is a common strategy in these scams.
• Anonymous Nature: No legitimate tax office representatives will ever leave a message without identifying themselves or providing credible contact information.

What to Do if You Receive a Call from This Number

If you get a call from 02 8006 0696 / 0280060696, here are the steps you should take:

• Do Not Engage: Do not interact with the caller or return the call. Engaging could provide them with more information.
• Block the Number: Most mobile and landline services now offer options to block scam numbers to prevent future disturbances.
• Report the Incident: Consider reporting the phone number to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or other relevant authorities to assist in the fight against telecommunications fraud.

Stay Vigilant

While technology has advanced, unfortunately, so have the methods used by scammers.Utilising a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia service like Reverseau can help you uncover the truth behind unknown numbers and safeguard your personal information. Remember, if it sounds too alarming to be true, it probably is!