- Scam
- Suspicious
Beware of the phone number 02 8880 0211, reported as a scam by users claiming to receive alarming messages about tax evasion from the ATO. Read our guide to understand how to handle such calls.
Understanding the Scam Behind 02 8880 0211
The phone number 02 8880 0211 / 0288800211 has raised significant concern amongst users, being frequently reported as part of a scam operation claiming to represent the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The callers allegedly inform recipients that they are under investigation for tax evasion, often leading to panic and confusion.
User reviews indicate a consistent pattern where individuals are contacted by an unidentified man claiming to be from the ATO. These impersonators do not provide their names nor any reference details, instead opting for scare tactics that suggest immediate action is required to avoid severe consequences.
Scam Characteristics
Based on user reports, this particular phone number is engaged in a manipulation style of scam, often referred to as tax evasion fraud. Key characteristics include:
- No personal identification is given: Callers do not request the recipient by name.
- Lack of documentation or caller ID: Callers fail to provide reference numbers or legitimate acknowledgement from the ATO.
- Pressuring messages: Recipients are urged to call back immediately without giving them time to verify the legitimacy of the call.
- Vagueness surrounding tax issues: The callers often avoid revealing specific details if prompted, such as a Tax File Number.
How to Handle This Scam
It is crucial for individuals to remain calm when receiving calls from this number. Here are some suggested actions:
- Do not engage: It's advisable not to enter into conversation with the caller or provide any personal information.
- Verify information: If there are any concerns about your tax status, contact the ATO through official channels directly to verify the legitimacy of the call.
- Report the incident: Notify authorities or the relevant institutions about the call received. This will help in tracking the scammers.
- Educate others: Share this information with friends and family, especially those who may be more vulnerable to such scams.
In conclusion, 02 8880 0211 / 0288800211 is a key player in a disturbing scam centred around false accusations of tax evasion, designed to induce fear and confusion. For peace of mind, use tools like Reverseau to conduct a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to ascertain the legitimacy of unknown callers. Remember, if a call seems suspect, it's always best to avoid interaction and seek information through verified sources.
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What Our Users Reviewed
This is obviously some scam. And it is serious, as a frail and/or elderly person could receive such a call and be frightened by it, have a panic attack or even a heart attack. It should be investigated by the police and the person(s)responsible prosecuted. I assume the ATO has been alerted.
As with others, request to call this number back regarding owing the ATO.
As I actually had a discrepancy that was dealt with over the phone as a "Tax Ruling", it could have been genuine, just a paper glitch on their end.
As soon as I asked for my Tax File Number, he pushed as many facts at me, like the tax codes and defraud codes, but was evasive on question of TFN.
When I said I would call the main ATO number and talk to the previous person who had helped with the phone "Tax Ruling." he hung up.
I just had a similar caller who left the number. Said he was from the ATO and I was being charged with tax evasion and not to ignore the call but to call them back immediately. They never left a callers name, reference number or the name of the person who was supposedly being charged.
This is a crock. We're just going to ignore it. To be honest, if there was any tax issues it would have been our accountant who would have heard first!
Best advice is just ignore it. It's a con.
An unidentified man says he is from tax department and I have a judgement against me for tax evasion and I must call. He didn't use my name or identify himself. Just said I am in trouble and do not ignore. This is a scam as just had tax done at accountants. He would know if I had a problem.