Police are investigating a scam after two men impersonating federal officers tried to extort money from an Adelaide couple yesterday and want to warn the public.
At 3pm on Monday 14 October, the victim received an automated phone message telling him he had a tax debt and a warrant had been issued for his arrest. The victim suspected a scam and rang the number back and terminated the call without providing any details.
About half an hour later, two men appeared at the door of the victim’s Salisbury Downs home. They were wearing blue jackets emblazoned with “Federal Police” and identified themselves as police officers. They told the victim he had a tax debt and produced an EFTPOS machine.
The victim challenged the men to produce identification and they ran off.
They are described as two men of Indian Subcontinental and Asian appearance, one aged in late 20s, the other in his 40s with an American accent.
A quick call to the ATO confirmed there was no outstanding tax debt and the victim immediately reported the matter to police. No money was stolen.
Northern District CIB detectives are investigating and ask anyone who saw the two men at Salisbury Downs yesterday or have experienced any similar incidents to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
If you are dealing with police, be it state or federal, and you doubt they are legitimate, ask to see some identification or ring 131 444 to verify their identity.
Don’t provide personal details, including financial details, to anyone without first verifying their identity.
For more crime prevention tips please contact your local police station or click here
