Tax Scams are on the rise. The ATO has recently issued warnings about increased reports of tax scams.
As we are in tax season, we generally have more communication from the ATO to the public and scammers are using this as an opportune time to strike.
Concerningly, scams are becoming more sophisticated every year which makes it harder for people to discern genuine ATO communications from fraud. Scammers are using all communication methods including phone calls, emails, text messages and social media to target people.
Common Scam Tactics to be aware of
- Fake Debts: You may receive a calls claiming you owe money to the ATO and must pay immediately or face arrest, fines, or legal action.
- Refund Offers: Scammers often promise a tax refund in exchange for “confirming your details” through a link or form.
- Phishing Messages: Fraudulent emails and SMS messages may contain links to fake myGov or ATO websites designed to steal your login credentials.
- Unusual Payments Requests: Be suspicious of anyone asking for payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or direct transfers to unfamiliar accounts. The ATO will never ask for payment in this way.
How to Protect Yourself
- Be cautious of urgency or threats. The ATO will never threaten you with arrest or demand immediate payment.
- Check the source. Genuine ATO emails will never ask you to provide personal information by reply. If you receive a suspicious message, don’t click on any links. Log in to your myGov account directly instead.
- Verify phone calls. If someone claims to be from the ATO and you’re unsure, hang up and call the ATO’s dedicated scam hotline on 1800 008 540.
- Protect your personal information. Never share your Tax File Number (TFN), banking details, or passwords with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Report scams. If you receive a suspicious message, you can report it to the ATO so they can take action and help protect others.
Stay Vigilant
The ATO stresses that they will never demand payment through unusual methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency, threaten you with immediate arrest or ask for sensitive information via email or SMS.
Always take the time to double-check before doing anything, even clicking on a link. By staying alert and cautious, you can protect yourself, your family, and your business from falling victim to tax scams.
If you’re unsure about any ATO communication, contact our tax team for clarity and peace of mind.