02 8317 3104: Scam Alert - ATO Tax Evasion Threat

3-min Read13 Reports

  • Scam
  • Suspicious

Beware of calls from 02 8317 3104, as it has been reported by users to be involved in an alarming scam impersonating the ATO regarding tax evasion. Discover how to handle such calls effectively.

Understanding the Risk of 02 8317 3104

The phone number 02 8317 3104 / 0283173104 has become notorious for being associated with a sophisticated scam operation impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). According to numerous reports from users, this number has been masquerading as an ATO representative, instilling fear and urgency in recipients by claiming that they are being prosecuted for tax evasion.

How the Scam Works

Typically, the scam initiates with an automated call that can leave a voicemail threatening the recipient with potential arrest for supposed tax offences. Many users have described receiving calls from "No Caller ID," forcing them to reach back to 02 8317 3104 / 0283173104 in hopes of clarifying the situation. Upon returning the call, individuals report encountering a person with a heavy accent, usually identifying themselves as part of the ATO, demanding immediate payments ranging from several thousand dollars.

  • User experiences indicate that callers are often told they must settle a fictitious debt to avoid incarceration.
  • Instances of intimidation tactics are reported, where victims are told that ATO officials will come to their residence to collect payments or notify them of an impending arrest.
  • Calls are designed to evoke panic, with limited room for doubt, preying on individuals' fear of legal repercussions.

Recognising the Warning Signs

Victims have noted several red flags associated with this phone number:

  • Unsolicited phone calls claiming they owe money to the ATO.
  • Demands for immediate payment, often in non-standard payment methods.
  • Threats of arrest or legal action if payments aren’t made promptly.
  • Difficulty in verifying the legitimacy of the caller due to the misuse of "No Caller ID."

Steps to Take if You Receive a Call

If you find yourself receiving a call from 02 8317 3104:

  • Never provide personal information or financial details over the phone.
  • Hang up and do not engage with the caller.
  • Report the call to the ATO's scam hotline at 1800 008 540 / 00008540.
  • You can also notify your local police department to file a report regarding the scam.
  • Consider performing a Reverse Phone Lookup in Australia to verify the caller's identity before engaging.

Conclusion

It is vital to remain vigilant against scams, particularly those that exploit the fear of legal troubles. The number 02 8317 3104 / 0283173104 is a clear example of how scammers manipulate the public's concern about taxes. If you have received a call from this number, be sure to share your experiences with others, and organisation such as Reverseau can help you identify and combat these malicious attacks.


Help others by sharing your experience with (02) 8317 3104!

WRITE A REVIEW

Ratings Distribution

1.2 out of 5
5 Stars 0%
4 Stars 0%
3 Stars 8%
2 Stars 0%
1 Star 92%

What Our Users Reviewed

L
Lauder

Got the same message, they don't answer calls from a private number but when you ring from a mobile it's answered straight away. This is definitely a scam it was on a current affair.

F
Fairbanks

I just received a call with No Caller ID and an automated answering machine saying that I have a warrant of arrest for tax evasion, and that I have to call the number 0283173104. Well, how come I have an arrest for not paying taxes. In the first place, I don't have tax file number and I am only a visitor in this country... It is a definitely a SCAM!!!

H
Hawley

Same as other complaints.

Said I have a warrant for evasion of tax.

My accountant would have let me know as everything goes through him.

Is definitely a scam and everyone should contact police or ato.

B
Brotherton

Received the same voicemail when I rang an Indian man answered and said he was an officer for the taxation office asked me for my tax file number when I refused he asked me to terminate the call. I'm glad I checked the number on here cause I was getting worried about it.

C
Crutchfield

Had a call from David Thomas saying there was a miscalculation of my tax and a warrant for my arrest I rang them and and told the it was a scam and he said F---K you man and hung up.

I rang back and told them the police were on the line listening and they hung up.

D
Dehn

The same, scam.

I spoke with an Indian man called Paul Smith. I asked him to give me a reference for my case etc and he got quite nervous as he said my case is still investigated.

B
Bunner

I received the same automated message saying to ring 0283173104. I rang this number and an Indian answered saying l needed to pay $5450 or I will go to jail. Very disturbing it looks like another scam.

L
Last

Got the same voice message left saying there was a warrant out for my arrest and they were the ato and in sydney I phoned this number back and an indian man asked for my tax file number. Will be reporting this.

K
Kaup

I had a call with a message today telling me I will be locked up for tax evasion if I don't pay within 2 hours.

H
Humphries

Maria and Anonymous - out of interest, had you received a genuine call from the ATO in the days leading up to the scam call? I received one the day before.

A
Amos

I received the same call as Maria for the first time today. I've registered it with the ATO Scam Calls number - 1800 008 540.

Report a scam.

8am–6pm, Monday–Friday (local time) except national public holidays.

F
Fiorentino

I received an automated call yesterday, claiming to be from the ATO and that I am being prosecuted for tax evasion. This call comes up as a No caller ID so I can't even block it. It advises me to call 02 8317 3104 to avoid prosecution. When I called this number back I got an Indian who advised there was a warrant for my arrest on hold. I had to pay $3950 by end of business and that they would send someone from the taxation office to collect the money from my home address and if I did not I would be arrested and placed in a cell for 72 hours then have to face court. I contacted the ATO and they advised this is a scam I have also reported it to the police.

H
Harrington

Received an automated call every day this week, claiming to be from the ATO and that I am being prosecuted for tax evasion. This call comes up as a No caller ID so I can't even block it. It advises me to call 02 8317 3104 to avoid prosecution.


Help others by sharing your experience with (02) 8317 3104!

WRITE A REVIEW