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ATO impersonation scam – victim lost $4000
Called my mother-in-law’s phone advising that they were from the ATO and that she owed $4000 tax debt. They were very demanding and hostile. My mother-in-law has English as her second language and was very worried as they threatened the police were coming to arrest her. They demanded she go to a petrol station and purchase the gift cards. She purchased $3000 in iTunes, $500 Google Play and $500 STEAM cards. They then sent “WhatsApp” messages to her requesting photos of the cards be sent, which she did. They then requested more money and more cards to which she declined and contacted family.
What were some signs that this was a scam?
- The threats of arrest and request for unusual payment methods. The tax office, Government agencies and any legitimate business will never threaten you with arrest, or demand immediate payment of a tax debt or fine with unusual payment methods like gift cards, Bitcoin or pre-paid credit cards.
What are some things the victim could have done to have avoided the scam?
- The victim’s vulnerability to this type of scam was increased as English was her second language. If you ever get a call or email claiming you will be arrested due to a tax debt, hang up the phone or delete the email. Do not call the number provided in the phone message or email you receive.
- If the victim was concerned that the phone call may have been legitimate, it’s still best to hang up immediately and call the ATO on 1800 008 540 to check.