0412 105 612: Scam - Fake Australian Tax Office Threat

• Scam

Be wary of calls from 0412 105 612, a number reported as a scam impersonating the Australian Tax Office. Discover how to protect yourself from such threats and what steps to take if you receive a call.

If you've received a call from 0412 105 612, it's essential to be cautious. Multiple users have reported receiving malicious calls from this number, with claims clearly indicating that it pretends to be the Australian Tax Office (ATO). This particular scenario aligns with a common scam tactic known as 'Government Impersonation Scams', where fraudsters use technology to mask their identity and scare recipients into divulging personal information.

The report from 15th June 2021 describes a threatening call where the caller alleged that legal action would be pursued for unresolved tax issues. Such strategies are designed to provoke fear and urgency, which scammers exploit to manipulate victims. If you receive a similar call, remember that legitimate organisations, like the ATO, will never resort to threats or aggressive tactics to solicit personal information.

So how can you handle calls from 0412 105 612 or similar numbers? Here are some practical steps:

• Do not engage: Do not provide any personal information or make any payments during the call.
• Verify: If you're unsure about the legitimacy of the call, hang up and contact the service provider directly using verified contact information.
• Report it: If you have confirmed that it’s a scam, report the call to the relevant authorities, including the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and local law enforcement.
• Use reverse phone lookup services: To find out who called you, consider using services like Reverseau to gain more insight on the number.

In summary, 0412 105 612 is classified as a scam number, impersonating a government body to instill fear among potential victims. Always remain vigilant, and when in doubt, verify using trustworthy sources. Protecting your personal information in today's digital landscape is paramount, and making informed decisions goes a long way towards ensuring your safety against such scams.