Police are warning NT residences to be wary of a telephone scam claiming people owe the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) money.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Malley said Police have received several reports from residents in Alice Springs who have received a phone call from a person claiming to work for the ATO.

“They are then advised by the caller they owe money to the ATO and if they do not pay the money they will be issued a warrant for their arrest.

“They are also advised to attend the Post Office and put money on a ‘Load and Go’ card to pay the money owed.

“If you receive a call or email out of the blue from someone claiming to represent the ATO and that you are entitled to, or owe money, Police advise you to end the phone call or delete the email.

“You can check whether the person is legitimate by calling the ATO on the official contact number: 13 28 69.

"You can also report scams to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission via the SCAMwatch page or by calling 1300 795 995.

For more information about Scams please visit:

http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/1164149

“Police would like to remind Territorians that you should never give your personal details to a stranger. This information can then be used to commit identity theft and steal your money.”

Police encourage anyone who has been a victim of this scam or anyone who may have further information to contact them on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.