- Spam
- Scam
- Suspicious
- Uncertain
Beware of calls from 03 9020 4487, reported as a scam by numerous users. This number claims to be the ATO demanding sensitive information. Learn how to protect yourself and handle such calls.
Understanding the Phone Number 03 9020 4487
The phone number 03 9020 4487 / 0390204487 has raised considerable alarm among Australians, being identified by multiple users as a fraudulent entity attempting to impersonate the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). With calls usually originating from computerised voices, these scammers threaten legal action and demand personal information such as tax file numbers. Alarmingly, many victims report feeling threatened, with some even mentioning claims of being under surveillance. Clearly, this number is associated with a significant phishing scam.
Classification: Scam
The recurring theme in user reports indicates that 03 9020 4487 / 0390204487 is not only a mere telemarketer but is indeed a part of a larger scam operation. This type of phishing scam has become particularly prevalent, with scammers exploiting fear tactics to extract sensitive information from unsuspecting individuals. Users shared experiences of receiving automated messages stating that an affidavit has been lodged against them, often falsely implying that the ATO is involved in potential criminal proceedings.
Details of the Scam
The scam typically involves:
- Automated calls portraying legal authority and urgency.
- Claims of prosecution for tax issues that do not exist.
- Requests for sensitive personal information, such as tax file numbers.
Users have reported that these messages prompt immediate action, asserting that Federal Police could be involved, which adds to the pressure for individuals to comply. The actual law enforcement procedure, however, is far from this aggressive tactic—such matters are communicated through formal letters, not vague automated calls.
How to Respond
If you receive a call from this number:
- Do Not Respond: Do not engage with the caller. Experts recommend refusing to provide any personal details.
- Report the Incident: Inform the Australian Federal Police or the ATO directly to report the scam.
- Utilise Reverse Phone Lookup Tools: Use services like Reverseau to check the legitimacy of unknown numbers.
Protect Yourself
These types of scams prey on fear and misinformation, thereby highlighting the importance of being informed. Always remember that legitimate entities like the ATO normally communicate via official channels and would never ask for sensitive information over the phone in such a manner. If in doubt, seek advice and verify the number through established channels.
As scams evolve, so should your vigilance. Stay aware, and shouldn't hesitate to stand firm against deceptive phone calls.
Help others by sharing your experience with (03) 9020 4487!
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What Our Users Reviewed
I'm in Melbourne and received a call today allegedly from the ATO. This is the second call I've received (both recorded messages.) Not even worth calling them back to see exactly what scam they're trying to pull.
Got this call today in Perth, called the ATO to let them know (they have an option for reporting scams) didn't sound legit but for anyone's reference the ATO would typically make contact in writing, and if there were a phone call it would not be an unaddressed pre-recorded message.
Can confirm we received this message as well (in perth) yesterday, glad I came on here to read that it was a hoax!
Just arrived home (Perth) to find the very same message on my answering machine.
I knew it had to be false, and a a quick Google confirms this.
They will not be hearing from me !!!!
Just returned home to a message purporting to be Public Prosecutions Office on behalf of taxation office and not to ignore this message and to ring back asap as Federal Police could be involved. Don't owe tax so must just enjoy scaring people. I'm in Perth so don't know why we've been targeted ....
So glad I read this I am over due doing my tax!! THOUGHT it was legit will not be returning the call, but will now do my tax lol.
Just got home to a message on the machine from a female advising she works for the Victorian Public Prosecutions Office on behalf of the Tax Office - ummmm No you don't, as I am pretty sure it would not be Public Prosecutions as it is referred to The Office for Public Procsecutions (OPP) advising there was a case against me for not paying tax. I have no intention of ringing them back, as I know I am all paid up and thought this has to be a scam. I am in the northern suburbs of Perth and was wondering whether they are ringing random numbers or are they going through areas???? Anyone else in Perth getting called ???
Ridiculous message about an affidavit lodged against name from the Tax Office and to call back immediately and that house is under surveillance. Could cause alarm for some people. Won't be ringing back.
Just had two automated voicemails left from this number, stating that we should be concerned and to call back as soon as possible regarding our taxes. Reported to the CDPP, and apparently the Australian Federal Police is chasing it. Don't give any information out!
I just got a call saying I was avoiding tax and they wanted my tax file number. When I said that I owed no tax they argued and then hung up. Don't give them any info. Dodgy as!
I just had the same recorded message at work saying an affidavit had been filed against this number. Scam!
Yes, calls are from criminals. Claimed to be from Commonwealth Dept of Public Prosecutions. The CDPP has report on its website:
[link].
I had the same yesterday, he identified himself as Xavier King gave me a reference number said I have to get a lawyer and kept on telling me Federal Police is involved and my Tax was miscalculated and I have done a Fraud. The guy was very rude and when I said to him I will not speak any further until he sends me a letter, he then yelled at me and said he will have the police sent to my house and deal with me.
Have had automated calls, two days straight, saying Commonwealth prosecutions on behalf of taxation office and an affidavit has been filed against my name and house is under surveillance....really!!! glad I checked the number out. I did not ring back and don't intend too.
Lesley - had the same. They called 4 times in 2 days and left 2 recorded messages. We have ignored them.
4 calls in two days leaving a computerised voicemail the last one had a different voice. If someone was going to prosecute you they would come to your door and serve a summons.
Just had the same phone call from a computerised voice. Glad I looked it up on the web and know it is a scam. Some people would be very scared to receive a call like that.
I have received the same message from the same number from a computerised voice. I have not responded.
Have had 3 calls in two days from this number claiming they are the ATO & that I am a primary suspect under surveillance. Have now called them 6 times in the past 10 minutes and they are now blocking me. As soon as I ask what they want they ask for my tax file no. & because I won't give it they are hanging up. Should I notify the police. Back luck if I'm an elderly person!