0434 018 357: Scam Alert - ATO Phishing Attempt

• Scam

The number 0434 018 357 has been reported as a phishing scam impersonating the ATO. Learn how to recognise and deal with such calls to safeguard your personal information.

Understanding the Threat: 0434 018 357

In recent reports, the phone number 0434 018 357 / 0434018357 has been highlighted as a potential scam, specifically identified as an ATO (Australian Taxation Office) phishing attempt. Such scams typically aim to instil a sense of urgency and fear in victims, claiming fictitious accounts or debts that require immediate attention.

What Users Are Experiencing

• One user reported receiving a message from this number on 01 March 2023, alleging a pending credit of $3,849 with the ATO, and suggesting they needed to deposit funds via a dubious link.

This kind of communication is classic behaviour for scammers who impersonate legitimate institutions to extract personal information or money from unsuspecting individuals. In this scenario, the message's urgency—telling the victim they owe money—serves as a common tactic to provoke hasty actions without careful consideration.

How to Handle Calls from 0434 018 357

If you receive a call or message from this number, it’s crucial to remember the following:

• Do Not Respond: Never engage with the sender or caller when you suspect a scam. Responding may lead to more unwanted communications.
• Verify: Instead of clicking any links or providing personal information, contact the ATO directly using official contact methods to verify any claims.
• Report: Consider reporting the number to Scamwatch or your local telecommunications provider. Protecting others from the same experience can help reduce such scams.

Stay Informed with Reverseau

Scam calls have become increasingly prevalent, and awareness is key to staying protected. For those seeking to know who called them, a reverse phone lookup in Australia is an excellent resource. By utilising services like Reverseau, you can further investigate phone numbers before engaging with them. Remember, staying educated is your best defence against fraud.

In conclusion, 0434 018 357 / 0434018357 is confirmed as a scam number associated with phishing attempts. Stay vigilant and informed to protect both yourself and your finances from potential threats.