- Scam
The phone number 02 8880 0491 has been reported as a suspicious scam call, falsely claiming to be from the ATO regarding tax evasion. Learn how to handle such calls effectively.
Beware of the Suspicious Call from 02 8880 0491
The phone number 02 8880 0491 has raised significant alarm among users, with numerous reports indicating that it is associated with a dangerous scam. Callers using this number have impersonated representatives from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), alleging serious legal actions such as tax evasion, which has left many feeling confused and alarmed.
What Makes This Call Suspicious?
From user reviews, it is clear that this number is linked to a well-orchestrated scam operation. Common themes in the reports include:
- Claims of impending arrest due to tax evasion.
- Automated recorded messages pushing recipients to return the call.
- Names like "John Smith" and "James Anderson" thrown around to create a false sense of legitimacy.
Despite the varying names they use, the consistent messaging about tax-related legal threats suggests a targeted scam designed to invoke fear and urgency.
How to Handle Calls from 02 8880 0491
If you receive a call from this number or any similar unsolicited calls, it is crucial to remain calm and take the following steps:
- Do not engage with the caller. If it's a recording, hang up immediately.
- Avoid returning calls to numbers that threaten legal action or require personal information.
- Report the number to authorities or your telecommunications provider if you believe you are being targeted.
- Utilise resources such as Reverseau for a quick reverse phone lookup to ascertain the nature and credibility of the caller.
A report from an actual ATO office confirmed that legitimate tax communications will never be delivered in this manner—always verify through official channels.
Final Thoughts
In this age of persistent scams, staying informed is vital. If you encounter 02 8880 0491 or similar numbers, protect yourself by trusting your instincts and being cautious. Remember, a reputable organisation will not make threats or demand immediate personal information without proper communication methods.
Help others by sharing your experience with (02) 8880 0491!
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What Our Users Reviewed
I also received a number of calls from James Anderson, from this number. Calls also came from 0261885643. Apparently it's a hoax, very glad I missed the calls.
Several voicemail messages on my landline from a "James Anderson" (could have been Henderson) saying a case against me for tax fraud or evasion was about to be lodged at the courthouse and I needed to call this number or else a member of the Australian police would come to my house and arrest me. I received 5 messages exactly the same over a couple of days. Rang the ato and they said it's definitely a scam and not to return the call and never give them any information or details if they call and I actually answer.
They call me three times a day the buggers... Total scam!
Got the recorded message 4 times regarding taxation evasion.. Some James Henderson. I had similar message a week ago from some lady.. Its a total scam..
They are scammers after vulnerable people, please don't talk to them, don't ring them back or believe what they say!
If you ring them back even to 'give a piece of your mind' they then know you are a 'live' number and you will get more scammers working on you.
The Tax Dept does not ring you like that, or send out the Police or go to court just like that.
Don't believe them at all, please :-).
Work at a Business Address and this number has phoned our Business 4 times today. Being in the accounts department I know that this is not the case at all but still a very worrying call to any recipient.
A definite scam. Hopefully the calls stop soon.
This number (well they say to ring this number back 02 88800491)rings with a recorded message, saying something about tax evasion. This 'recording' has rung 3 times today. Are they trying to get peoples voices recorded for voice activation??? Unable to phone the number back has an engaged signal.
Came home to a recorded message. Supposedly from the Tax Office. A couple of hours later, received a call from a call centre, asking to speak to me.
I pretended I couldn't hear them and kept saying "hello". Then I hung up.
Have had recorded messages before, but they have always been recorded messages. They came out of Casino.
Tried ringing number back9to give them a piece of my mind0. Keep getting the engaged single.
Already on a do not call registet. Will teport this number to telstra.
John Smith with strong accent call from ATO to say they launch legal procedure because of the tax evasion.
Just speak with the guy 60 minutes if you have time, make a fun.
Called with a recorded message saying he is from ATO's legal department, about to start a tax evasion proceeding.
Called saying from Tax office and aboput to issue warrant for arrest for tax evasion.