Telephone Scams

Members of the public have contacted police stating they have received a phone call from someone claiming the victim has an outstanding tax debt.

They might even tell you there is a warrant out for your arrest.

Often the number displayed on the caller identification is that of a local police station or other government agency, such as the ATO.

The scammers reportedly ask for personal information or bank details, and in some examples request the victim purchases online music vouchers or similar products to pay supposed fines.

If you receive a phone call requesting personal information or payment from a person representing themselves from a law enforcement or government agency:

• Do not respond to the request and hang up

• Call the institution back via a publicly listed phone number if you are concerned about it, but banks will never ring you to confirm details.

The phone call might already alert you to the fact that the call is a Potential Fraud Threat. Just hang up, don’t even answer.

If you have lost money as a result of this type of scam, please report the matter to your local police station.

You can also report scams to Scamwatch.