03 9013 3746: Tax Fraud Scam Alert

• Scam

Beware of the phone number 03 9013 3746, a reported scam claim from a caller impersonating the ATO. Learn how to identify scam calls and what steps to take if you receive a call from this number.

Understand the Threat of 03 9013 3746

The phone number 03 9013 3746 / 0390133746 has been widely reported by users as a scam, with the caller impersonating the Australian Tax Office (ATO). Scammers are increasingly using sophisticated tactics to trick unsuspecting individuals into revealing personal information or making payments under false pretenses. In this case, the scam revolves around false allegations of tax fraud.

What Users Are Reporting

Reports from 2021 indicate that callers claiming to be from the ATO have contacted individuals, insisting that they have been implicated in tax fraud. Users noted that the scammer often threatened them with severe consequences, such as legal action or arrest if they did not cooperate. Common phrases identified in these calls include requests for tax file numbers, financial information, and even severe threats of criminal prosecution.

Classification of the Number

• Scam Type: Tax Fraud Scam
• Motivation: The objective is to extract personal information and potentially, money from victims.
• Caller Behaviour: Reported calls frequently leave automated messages which make them sound official, leading the recipient to believe the urgency merited a response.

How to Protect Yourself

If you received a call from this number, the most effective strategy is to hang up immediately. Do not engage with the caller or provide any information. Remember that the ATO will never ask for personal information over the phone in this manner, and will always communicate through secure channels. Here is how to handle such calls:

• Do Not Respond: Hang up if suspicious; do not converse with the caller.
• Do Not Provide Information: Never give personal details such as your tax file number or bank information over the phone.
• Report the Call: Use platforms such as Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup, to identify or report suspicious numbers.

What to Do If You Engage

If you've already spoken with the callers from 03 9013 3746 / 0390133746, consider taking the following actions:

• Notify Authorities: Report the scam to Scamwatch or the ATO.
• Monitor Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank statements and financial accounts for any unusual activity.

Staying informed and vigilant is essential. With the increasing sophistication of scams in Australia, recognising fraudulent calls is your best line of defence. Remember, if it seems suspicious, it probably is!