08 7200 0343: Scam - Impersonating ATO Officials

• Scam

Receive a call from 08 7200 0343? This number has been reported as a scam, with impersonators claiming to be ATO officials. Learn how to handle such calls and protect your personal information.

Understanding the Scam Behind 08 7200 0343

Calls from unknown numbers can be concerning, and when it comes to 08 7200 0343 / 0872000343, the reports paint a clear picture of a scam operation. Users have reported receiving calls from this number that revolve around fraudulent claims of money being owed from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

What Users Are Experiencing

On 11 December 2017, multiple individuals recounted troubling interactions with this number. One report detailed a caller claiming to be "Detective John Williams", who attempted to lure the individual into sharing personal information by promising a refund from the ATO, mentioning an amount of $995.45. The voice had a distinctive Indian accent, a common trait among many scams originating from overseas.

Another user reported that the caller tried to confirm their username linked to their mobile number but hung up when they didn’t engage further. This tactic is often used by scammers to either gather personal information or gauge the individual's willingness to communicate.

Classifying 08 7200 0343

Following an analysis of user reports, it is evident that 08 7200 0343 / 0872000343 is linked to a fraud scheme impersonating ATO officials. This type of scam, known as "phishing", aims to collect sensitive information under false pretenses by leveraging fake authority. Such actions are not only illegal but also threaten the financial security of unsuspecting Australians.

How to Handle Calls from This Number

If you receive a call from 08 7200 0343 / 0872000343 or any similar number, here are some important steps to take:

• Do not engage: If the call is unexpected and you feel uncomfortable, simply hang up.
• Do not provide personal information: Never provide credit card numbers, passwords, or any sensitive details over the phone to unknown callers.
• Report the number: Utilise services like Reverseau to report this number and inform others of potential scams.
• Verify claims: If the call claims to be from the ATO or any official entity, you can independently verify their legitimacy by contacting them directly through official channels.

Staying informed can help you protect yourself against such scams. Always remember: if something seems off, trust your instincts and steer clear.