We often receive calls or emails from clients checking about a text message, phone call or email they have received supposably from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Are these messages legitimate or scams? Client Manager Victoria Glazier recommends to clients to always check and double check before clicking on links or downloading attachments.
Some of the common ATO scams include:
- Text message scams – Text messages claiming to be from the ATO requesting personal information or directing recipients to click on links. The ATO does not send SMS/text messages with links.
- Social media accounts – There has been an increase in fake ATO social media accounts across Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram and other platforms. Do not click on links without verifying the site first.
- Phone scams – Scammers call individuals claiming to be from the ATO and demand immediate payment of supposed tax debts, then threaten legal action if the debt is not paid promptly.
- Email or phishing scams – Fake emails purporting to be from the ATO often contain links or attachments. Once clicked or downloaded, these can install malware or direct the user to fake websites aimed at stealing personal and financial information.
There have been recent reports of an increase in email scams impersonating the ATO. Scammers are emailing clients requesting updates with multi-factor authentication (MFA) on their ATO account.
“Do not fall victim to this latest scam,” says Victoria.
“The scam email includes a QR code which takes you to a fake myGov sign in page, designed to steal your myGov sign in details.
“Always seek professional advice if you receive any of the above and are unsure if it is legitimate,” says Victoria.
“Call your accountant tax advisor, we can log onto the ATO portal system as your Registered Tax Agent and check if the information or request you have received is legitimate.”
If you suspect you have received an ATO scam, report it immediately to the ATO. You can lodge a scam report with the ATO online (ato.gov.au/reportascam) or you can also call the ATO and report the scam.
Avoid falling victim to ATO scams – verify the identity, be cautious, protect personal information and report suspicious activities.
Our experienced team at Coutts Redington are here to assist identifying ATO scams, as our focus is on you and your business.
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