Protect yourself against tax scams
It is during this period that an out-of-the-blue call from the ATO doesn’t seem so out-of-the-blue because it is, of course, tax time.
Here are some common tax-related scams and tips to help you stay protected
Scammers are smart. They know that a call or email from the ATO, myGov or someone claiming to be a tax agent during tax time may appear more legitimate and can lead you to drop your guard.
Be cautious of phishing emails and texts
Scammers can send emails or SMS impersonating the ATO or myGov, asking you to update your details or claim a refund.
Example scam
You receive an email or an SMS asking you to update your details as soon as possible to avoid delays in claiming your tax refund.
The link takes you to a fake website that captures your details.
Suspicious links
The first sign of scam SMS or email is it contains a suspicious link or QR code.
The ATO or myGov will not send any correspondence with a link asking for you to enter your personal information or to login to your account.
Sense of urgency
Nearly all scams encourage you to act within a limited time. You may see messages like:
Update your details to avoid processing delays.
Your refund failed. Update your account details now.
Your tax return is ready, verify your details now.
Fake domains and phone numbers
Scam emails addresses don't always look legitimate. There may be spelling errors in the email address (e.g. AT0.gov.au instead of ATO.gov.au) or it can look completely unrelated.
Scam texts can also come from unlisted or international numbers.
Spelling or grammatical errors
Request for information
Stay alert for phone scams
Scammers can impersonate the ATO over the phone.
They may quote fake reference numbers and ask for your details to finalise your tax return or demand a payment to settle a tax bill.
Example
You get a call from a scammer pretending to be from the ATO stating that you have a tax debt that you need to settle immediately.
They may ask you for your credit card details or instruct you to pay with gift cards or prepaid debit cards.
Suspicious phone numbers
If you receive a call from an unlisted or overseas number, be cautious.
If the caller discusses your tax return, hang up and contact the ATO directly using the number listed on their website.
Urgent requests
Scam callers try to create a sense of urgency using pushy tactics. For example:
We need more information to process your tax return, confirm your details now.
You have a tax bill that needs to be settled immediately. To avoid a debt, make a payment now.
Requests for information
Scammers often push for your personal details over the phone.
Never provide your information unless you're sure that the person on the other end of the line is from the ATO. If in doubt, hang up and call the ATO directly to verify their request.
Keep an eye out for fake tax agent scams
Not all tax scams involve impersonating the ATO and other government agencies.
Some scammers pose as registered tax agents, promising large tax returns in exchange for handling your tax affairs.
Example scam
A tax agent contacts you promising a large tax return in exchange for handling your tax affairs. However, the agent may be a scammer trying to obtain your personal information, including your myGov login.
If a scammer logs into your myGov, they can access your information.
Be wary of large returns and upfront payments
Scammers use the promise of large returns to entice you. Be extra vigilant when a supposed tax agent is promising a large tax return. Some may even ask for an upfront payment in return for lodging your tax.
Verify your tax agent
Do not provide any information to a tax agent unless you are certain that they are a registered tax agent.
Check your tax agent’s details with the Tax Practitioner’s Board register to see if they are a registered tax agent.
Never share your myGov login
Your myGov login should never be shared with anyone.
myGov contains personal information which can be used by scammers to defraud you.
Stay vigilant throughout tax time
Tax season is a prime time for scammers. But who knows how to beat a scam? You do. That’s who.
Stay vigilant when managing your tax affairs. When you receive a phone call, email, or SMS requesting personal information, take a moment to question why you're being contacted. If you’re uncertain, consult a trusted friend or relative before responding.
For information around the latest tax scams, keep an eye on the ATO website's scam alerts.
Sources:
Scam watch alerts: Scam alerts - Find information and examples on the latest tax and super-related ATO impersonation scams
ABC news article: Scammers are pretending to be the ATO and myGov. Here's what suspicious emails or texts may look like
ATO article: Check before you act: ATO impersonation scams
Scam watch article: ATO impersonation scam: mother-in-law lost $4000 over a fake tax debt
The information in this communication is general in nature and is intended to raise awareness about common scam tactics and preventative measures. While the information may assist you in mitigating your exposure to scams and fraud, this is not guaranteed in any way. Examples are illustrative only and are subject to the assumptions and qualifications disclosed. Whilst care has been taken in preparing the content, no liability is accepted for any errors or omissions in this communication, and/or losses or liabilities arising from any reliance on this communication.