0479 173 961: Suspicious Call - Government Scam Attempt

• Scam

Received a call from 0479 173 961? This number has been reported for suspicious activity, claiming to be from the government. Read on for insights and how to handle unwanted calls.

Understanding the Risks of 0479 173 961

The phone number 0479 173 961 / 0479173961 has raised significant red flags among users, being classified as a suspicious call attempting to impersonate government officials. Such calls are particularly concerning as they often use scare tactics, leveraging the authority of government agencies to extract personal information or money.

The Scam Details

Multiple reports indicate that the callers behind 0479 173 961 / 0479173961 claim to represent the Australian Tax Office (ATO) and initiate conversations intended to intimidate recipients into compliance. For instance, one user reported receiving a call where the person on the other end of the line threatened legal action on behalf of the government. Upon pressing the prompt to speak with an agent, the user was met with a foreign accent and experienced a disconcerting disconnection upon asking for official contact details.

How to Handle Calls from 0479 173 961

If you receive a call from 0479 173 961 / 0479173961, here are a few steps you should follow:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid providing any personal information. Legitimate government agencies will not ask for sensitive details over the phone.
• Hang Up: If the conversation seems suspicious, it's prudent to end the call. Hang up and validate the source independently.
• Report the Incident: Notify the relevant authorities about the scam attempt. In Australia, you can report such calls to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
• Use Reverseau: Consider utilising tools like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to identify the owner of unfamiliar numbers before engaging.

Conclusion

In summary, 0479 173 961 / 0479173961 should be treated with caution. With increasing reports of attempted fraud, it’s essential to remain vigilant and protect your information. Always verify callers claiming to represent official bodies, and never hesitate to err on the side of caution. Stay informed and safe by regularly checking user reports and listings on platforms like Reverseau and defining calls with the “Who Called Me Australia” tool.