How to Avoid ATO Tax Scams in Australia

The Australian Government and Australian Tax Office are warning Australians to keep an eye out for fake/impersonation tax scams. Scammers want to get their hands on more than just your money. Your personal info is just as valuable.

You might be familiar with scams that ‘phish’ for personal and financial information – like your TFN, myGov details, address, or date of birth – by pretending to be government agencies. Criminals can use these details to drain your bank accounts, buy expensive goods and even scam your family and friends.

Scamwatch reports over $1.26 million lost and more than 7100 reports made as in June however in reality the losses are likely to be far greater. Reported scams increased during tax time with text messages claiming to be from myGov or from agencies claiming to help victims gain early access to their superannuation.

What Are ATO tax scams

An ATO scam is a type of government impersonation scam where criminals pretend to be from the Australian Tax Office. They may send fake emails, text messages, or phone calls claiming you owe tax or are entitled to a refund. These tax scams often pressure you to click on links, download attachments, or share personal details like your Tax File Number (TFN), myGov login, or bank information.

“Scammers are increasingly taking advantage of the financial difficulties and uncertainty generated from the COVID-19 pandemic to trick unsuspecting Australians,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said.

From 1 January-5 July 2020 Scamwatch has received:

• 67 reports of tax scams involving impersonation of the Department of Health, or state Department of Health and Human Services, with losses over $8700
• 443 reports of tax scams involving Australian Federal Police impersonations with losses over $176,000
• 1,070 reports of scams involving Services Australia impersonations with losses over $94,000
• 1,638 reports of scams involving myGov impersonations with losses over $105,000
• 2,016 reports of scams involving Department of Home Affairs impersonations with losses over $99,000
• 2,389 reports of scams involving ATO impersonations with losses over $905,000.

Common Types of Government Impersonation Scams

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Here are some common forms of government impersonation scams to watch out for:

• Phishing Emails and SMS (myGov scam): Fake messages directing you to log into a fake myGov portal.
• Phone Calls: Threatening arrest or legal action unless you pay immediately.
• Fake Refund Offers: Promising tax refunds if you provide personal or bank details.
• Superannuation Access Scams: Claiming to help you access super early due to financial hardship.

If you have been scammed and needed to change any of your contact information, please get in touch with our office. You can know more about Financial Scams Prevention in detail.