Understanding 02 8417 3357
If you've received a call or message from 02 8417 3357 / 0284173357, consider yourself warned. This number has been reported multiple times by users for its dubious claims regarding tax fraud. The incidents appear to involve a typical phishing scam masking itself as communication from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Common Reports from Users
Users describe receiving alarming messages claiming they were involved in tax fraud and urging them to call back the number for further instructions. Reports from as far back as November 2015 indicate a consistent pattern: callers with foreign accents, often mentioning serious legal repercussions, create a sense of urgency and dread. Such tactics are hallmark behaviours of con artists aiming to extract personal details or monetary information.
Why This Number is Classified as a Scam
The overwhelming user feedback categorising 02 8417 3357 / 0284173357 as a scam can be attributed to several factors:
- Impersonation of ATO: The messages falsely claim to be from the ATO, which would never communicate such sensitive information solely via phone without prior postal correspondence.
- Poor Grammar and Accent: Many users noted the poor grammar and the presence of foreign accents in the messages, further indicating it's not an official call from a government agency.
- Phishing for Identifiable Information: The purpose of these calls is likely to engage individuals into providing personal or financial details, which is characteristic of phishing scams.
What to Do if You Receive a Call from This Number
If you receive a call or message from 02 8417 3357 / 0284173357, your best course of action is:
- Do Not Respond: Avoid calling the number back or providing any information.
- Contact the ATO Directly: If you're concerned about your tax affairs, reach out to the ATO using verified contact numbers listed on their official website.
- Report the Scam: Notify scams@ato.gov.au or lodge a report with services like SCAMwatch or your local consumer protection agency.
Staying alert is key when navigating unsolicited calls. For further assurance on who exactly is contacting you, consider using a Reverse Phone Lookup Australia service, like Reverseau, to investigate the identity behind unexpected numbers.