1800 801 373: ATO Scam Alert - Protect Yourself from Tax Scammers

• Scam

Beware of calls from 1800 801 373, reported as an ATO scam. Read our guide on identifying and dealing with tax-related scams to protect your finances.

Understanding the 1800 801 373 / 00801373 Scam

If you've received a call from 1800 801 373 / 00801373, it's important to be cautious as this number has been reported as part of an ATO (Australian Taxation Office) scam. Scammers often impersonate ATO officials, creating a sense of urgency to trick unsuspecting individuals into divulging personal information or making payments.

User Reports

Based on user experiences, this number has been linked to calls from someone claiming to be "Peter Carmichael from the ATO." They often leave voicemails with a complex reference number and urge you to call back. This tactic is typical of scammers who attempt to create fear of legal repercussions regarding tax returns, pressuring victims to act immediately.

Classification of the Number

The calls from 1800 801 373 / 00801373 can be categorised as a scam involving impersonation of ATO officials. Here are some key reasons behind this classification:

• Unknown Reference Numbers: User reports mention verification attempts with the ATO, revealing that the reference numbers provided by the caller have no records in their system.
• Lack of Authentication: The supposed ATO callers do not provide any methods of verifying their identity, which is suspicious and indicates fraudulent intent.
• Induced Fear: Scammers tend to use intimidating language around tax issues, making it imperative for calls originating from this number to be treated with extreme suspicion.

How to Deal With Calls from This Number

If you receive a call from 1800 801 373:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid providing any personal or financial information.
• Verify Independently: Instead of calling back the number, contact the ATO directly through their official communication channels to confirm any supposed communications.
• Report the Call: If you're targeted by these calls, report them to the appropriate authorities, such as the ATO or consumer protection agencies.

Stay vigilant and informed to protect yourself from such scams. For those who are interested in further verifying phone numbers, utilising platforms like Reverseau can help you find out who called you in Australia, making it easier to handle suspicious calls effectively.