02 8317 3347: Scam - Impersonating ATO for Tax Fraud Claims

• Scam
• Spam
• Uncertain

Discover the truth about phone number 02 8317 3347, reported as a scam targeting Australians. Learn how to recognise these fraudulent calls and protect yourself.

Understanding the Threat of 02 8317 3347

The phone number 02 8317 3347 / 0283173347 has raised significant alarm among users, with an overwhelming number of reports categorising it as a scam. Many Australians have described harassing calls coming from this number, often impersonating authorities such as the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to make unfounded claims about tax fraud. This type of scam is not only dangerous but can also lead to increased anxiety and distress for individuals targeted.

What Kind of Scam is This?

Many reports indicate that the calls appear to originate from an automated system, delivering messages that threaten legal repercussions related to tax issues. Users have reported beings told their phone lines and homes were under surveillance because of supposed unclaimed mail and unpaid taxes. The call often employs a disembodied, robotic voice or a foreign accent, further indicating its illegitimacy.

Why Are They Calling?

The intent behind these calls is often to instil fear in the recipient in order to elicit personal information or monetary contributions. For instance, after being targeted multiple times, users have commented that the calls seemed to come during late hours and often followed up with persistent attempts to engage, regardless of communication preferences. These characteristics—offering unsolicited financial advice or misleading claims about tax issues—suggest how scammers exploit financial anxieties to wear down their victims.

How to Handle Calls from 02 8317 3347

• Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from this number, do not engage. Hanging up immediately can prevent the scammer from gathering any information from you.
• Do Not Share Personal Information: Legitimate organisations will never ask for personal details over the phone. Sharing your information could lead to identity theft.
• Report the Number: If you experience any harassment from calls linked to this number, report it to the authorities such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or your local consumer protection agency.
• Use Reverseau: Consider using Reverseau, a service for Reverse Phone Lookup Australia, to gather information about suspicious numbers and protect yourself from potential scams.

Stay Vigilant and Informed

It’s essential to stay informed about the latest scam reports to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you ever doubt the legitimacy of a call, remember that legitimate calls from the ATO or other government bodies will include official written correspondence, and they do not operate via intimidating phone calls. Being vigilant and knowledgeable can go a long way in keeping scammers at bay.