0422 138 917 - Scam Alert: Tax Refund Phishing Attempt

• Scam

Receive a call from 0422 138 917? This number is reported as a scam related to a fake tax refund. Learn how to identify and handle such calls effectively.

Identifying the Scam: 0422 138 917

In recent communications, 0422 138 917 / 0422138917 has made waves among Australian phone users, primarily for its association with scams that pose significant risks to unsuspecting individuals. This number reportedly claims to be from the Australian Taxation Office, promising a refund of $12,000 but linked to a dangerous phishing scheme.

The Nature of the Scam

Many individuals have reported that when they receive calls from this number, the caller attempts to convince them that they are eligible for a substantial tax refund. However, they skilfully lead the victim into logging into MyGov using a link provided by the scammer. This tactic is a classic example of a phishing scam, where fraudsters try to gather personal information by feigning legitimacy.

Signs The Call is a Scam

• The caller claims to be from the Australian Taxation Office and discusses unsolicited refunds.
• They request you to log into bank accounts or government portals using their link.
• There is a sense of urgency in the conversation, pressing you to act swiftly.

How to Handle Such Calls

If you receive a call from 0422 138 917 / 0422138917 or any other suspicious number claiming to offer refunds or request personal information, it’s essential to take the following steps:

• Hang Up: Disconnect the call immediately.
• Do Not Engage: Engaging with the caller may lead to further attempts to extract information from you.
• Verify Independently: If concerned about your tax status, contact the Australian Taxation Office directly using validated numbers sourced from official websites.
• Report the Scam: Document the number and details of the call and report it to Scamwatch or your local authorities.

Conclusion

Phone number 0422 138 917 / 0422138917 is firmly classified as a scam, specifically targeting individuals through false tax refund offers. Staying informed about such scams is crucial in today’s digital age. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to consult legitimate sources before taking any action. By employing resources like Reverseau and the Reverse Phone Lookup Australia feature, users can effectively safeguard themselves against related scams and identify potential risks from unknown callers.