A warning of scams involving bogus calls claiming to be from Government Agencies has been issued by Consumer Protection.
The warning follows reports which show an increase in losses suffered by victims across the State.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Gary Newcombe said so far this financial year 34 people had reported losing a total of $268,300, with 217 reports being received.
“This is a massive increase when compared to the 2019 calendar year statistics showing 22 victims losing $100,450 and 51 reports,” Mr Newcombe said.
He said taxpayers reported receiving hostile phone calls or voicemail messages from scammers pretending to be from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) threatening arrest unless a fake tax debt was paid.
Other variations included the supposed suspension of a Tax File Number or claims that the victim’s bank account had been used for fraudulent activities that were being investigated by police.
“The calls can also come from scammers pretending to represent Home Affairs, Services Australia or MyGov,” Mr Newcombe said.
“They ask for a variety of payment methods including bank transfer, cash bank deposits, gift cards, vouchers, prepaid credit cards or crypto-currencies,” he said.
“Scammers often hold their victims on the phone until payment is made, preventing them from contacting other people who may warn of the possibility of a scam.”
He said those getting the calls should hang up and contact the ATO directly to verify the call, not using the numbers they were given.
“Do the same if it’s a voicemail and importantly don’t respond, otherwise you could risk becoming a victim,” Mr Newcombe said.
