02 8091 3700: Suspicious ATO Refund Scam Call

• Scam

Have you received a call from 02 8091 3700? This suspicious number claims to be from the ATO regarding a tax refund. Read on for tips on how to handle such calls safely.

Is 02 8091 3700 / 0280913700 a Scam?

The phone number 02 8091 3700 / 0280913700 has been reported by users as a suspicious call claiming to represent the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The caller typically informs recipients that they are entitled to a refund without prompting them for personal information. As many Australians are aware, legitimate ATO communications would never request sensitive data in such a manner.

Understanding the Scam

User feedback reveals that the people receiving calls from this number expressed concern about its legitimacy. On 31 May 2018, a user reported missing a call from this number and expressed hesitation about calling it back. This hesitance is well-founded, as many scammers use tactics that exploit taxpayer fears of missing out on refunds or facing penalties.

Why is this Number Considered Suspicious?

The primary reasons that 02 8091 3700 / 0280913700 is deemed suspicious include:

• Unsolicited Contact: Scam phone calls typically initiate contact unexpectedly, especially about financial matters.
• Imposter Claims: It’s common for scammers to pose as authoritative figures, such as those from the ATO, to lend credibility to their fraudulent activities.
• No Verification Process: Legitimate entities like the ATO allow for verification through official channels; anyone demanding immediate action or personal information should be approached with caution.

What to Do If You Receive a Call from This Number

If you receive a call from 02 8091 3700 / 0280913700 or any similar suspicious number, consider the following steps:

• Do Not Call Back: Avoid returning the call unless you are certain the number is legitimate. Scammers can use phishing techniques to extract more personal information.
• Verify Independently: If you believe you might be due a refund, contact the ATO directly using their official contact numbers sourced from their legitimate website.
• Report the Number: You can report scam calls to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) through their Scamwatch website, helping to prevent others from falling victim.

Conclusion

02 8091 3700 / 0280913700 is classified as a suspicious phone number likely associated with a scam claiming to be from the ATO regarding tax refunds. Always stay vigilant when receiving unsolicited calls, and remember, taking proactive steps can protect your personal information. For additional details or to check if you've been harassed by this type of scam, consider using Reverseau and the Reverse Phone Lookup Australia service for additional insights.