0402 828 448 - Scam Alert: Tax Office Impersonation

• Scam

Received a call from 0402 828 448? This number has been reported as a tax office scam, aiming to instil fear over your tax file number. Read on for tips on how to handle such calls.

Identifying 0402 828 448: Scam or Legit?

The phone number 0402 828 448 / 0402828448 has recently come under scrutiny in Australia, with several users categorising it as a scam. Specifically, it is reported to be an impersonation attempt by scammers pretending to represent the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Such scams are alarmingly common as fraudsters attempt to exploit individuals by instilling fear concerning their tax obligations.

Understanding the Scam

According to user reports, calls from this number often claim urgent issues regarding your Tax File Number (TFN). Victims are threatened with suspension of their TFN and even arrest, attempting to manoeuvre people into panicked responses. This fraudulent tactic leverages a familiar structure—a phone call from a seemingly official source conveys severe consequences to prompt immediate compliance.

What to Do If You Receive a Call

If you receive a call from 0402 828 448 / 0402828448, it's crucial to remain calm and take steps to protect yourself:

• Do Not Engage: Avoid providing any personal information or engaging further with the caller.
• Verify the Caller: Hang up and contact the Australian Taxation Office directly through their official channels to verify any claims made during the call.
• Report the Call: Document the details and report the scam to the relevant authorities, such as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or Scamwatch.
• Warn Others: Share your experience with friends and family to help them stay alert to potential scams.

The Importance of Awareness

Scams like the one associated with 0402 828 448 / 0402828448 underline the importance of vigilance when it comes to unexpected phone calls. Remember, official agencies like the ATO will not contact you in this manner, nor will they demand immediate payment or personal information through phone calls.

Using platforms like Reverseau can provide insight into unknown numbers, assisting users in making informed decisions. Stay updated, and don’t fall victim to these fraudulent schemes!