03 9018 5084: ATO Tax Arrest Warrant Scam

• Scam

The number 03 9018 5084 has been reported as a scam and is linked to fake claims of taxation fraud. Learn how to identify such calls and protect your personal information.

Understanding the Calls from 03 9018 5084

The phone number 03 9018 5084 / 0390185084 has made quite a stir among Australian phone users, with multiple reports indicating that it is linked to a scam targeting unsuspecting individuals by impersonating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This particular nuisance has been classified as an ATO Tax Arrest Warrant Scam, designed to instil fear and provoke hasty actions from victims.

What Happens When You Receive a Call?

According to user reports from December 3, 2018, the modus operandi of the callers appears to be quite straightforward yet deceptive. Many users reported receiving calls where an automated voice claims that they are under investigation for taxation fraud. This is where the scam digits take a turn into the extreme, coercing individuals to dial another number purportedly to sort out the 'issue'—a ploy designed to harvest personal information and possibly financial details.

Identifying the Red Flags

Recognising whether a call or message is legitimate is crucial in today's age, rife with scams. Here are a few red flags associated with calls from 03 9018 5084:

• Automated Messages: The use of recorded voice systems often indicates a lack of legitimacy.
• Threatening Language: Scammers typically invoke fear, suggesting serious consequences like legal actions.
• Calls to Action: Urging you to call another number or provide personal information is a definite signal of a scam.

How to Handle Such Calls

If you encounter a call from 03 9018 5084 / 0390185084, it is essential to remember the following:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid providing any information or responding to the threat.
• Verify: If you suspect the call might be real, hang up and contact the relevant authority directly using official contact details.
• Report It: Informing authorities such as Scamwatch or the ATO can help thwart these fraudulent activities and protect others from falling victim.

Conclusion

While calls from numbers like 03 9018 5084 / 0390185084 can be alarming, staying informed is the best way to protect yourself. Utilising services like Reverseau for a reverse phone lookup in Australia can provide valuable insights into suspicious numbers. Remember, legitimate governmental organisations will never approach you in such a threatening manner.