03 9014 9610: Scam - Impersonating the Australian Taxation Office

• Scam
• Suspicious
• Spam

The number 03 9014 9610 has been reported as a scam impersonating the Australian Taxation Office. Learn how to identify and deal with such calls to protect yourself.

Is 03 9014 9610 / 0390149610 a Scam?

If you've recently received a call from 03 9014 9610 / 0390149610, you might want to pay close attention. Reports indicate that this number is associated with a scam operation, where callers impersonate officials from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Understanding the Scam

Users have reported receiving automated calls stating they are from the ATO and claiming there are un-lodged taxes that need immediate attention. The messages often feature poor grammar and lack the professionalism one would expect from a government agency, which is your first red flag.

• One individual noted that the automated message instructed them to press '1' to avoid legal action, a classic fear tactic aimed at eliciting immediate response without considering the legitimacy of the call.
• Another user reported receiving two calls from the same number, confirming the repetitive and unsolicited nature of these scam approaches.

This type of scam exploits unsuspecting individuals, often creating a sense of urgency that pressures them into providing personal information or making payments. It's crucial to remember that the ATO does not initiate calls in this manner, especially regarding tax issues.

How to Protect Yourself

So, how should you handle calls from this number? Here are some clear steps to take:

• Do not engage: If you receive a call from 03 9014 9610 / 0390149610, simply hang up. Never provide personal information over the phone to unsolicited callers.
• Verify: If you're genuinely concerned about your tax status, directly contact the ATO through their official website or customer service numbers. Do not rely on phone numbers provided in the suspicious call.
• Report: Consider reporting the number to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or use a reverse phone lookup service like Reverseau to check reports associated with the number.

Conclusion

Possibly overwhelming calls can be unnerving, particularly when they involve threats of legal action. By remaining vigilant and informed, you can successfully protect yourself from scams like the one associated with 03 9014 9610 / 0390149610. Always prioritise personal and financial safety over urgency created by such deceptive calls.