Beware of ATO Scams!
From time to time we receive calls from concerned clients claiming the ATO has rung them demanding payment for outstanding debts immediately. Or some clients received an email from someone posing as the ATO to ask you to click on a link.
These are most likely scammers trying to defraud you of your hard earned money. Do not provide them with any information over the phone, or click on any link in that email. For people who have their tax returns prepared and lodged with the ATO via a tax agent – the ATO will not contact you directly as they are required to contact your tax agent first.
Please be mindful that the ATO will never:
- threaten you with immediate arrest
- ask you to pay money to receive a refund or payment from us
- ask you to pay a debt via iTunes vouchers, or pre-paid credit card or store gift cards
- ask you to provide personal information, such as your tax file number (TFN) or credit card number, via email or SMS
- ask you to pay money into a personal bank account
- direct you to download files from the internet, or open attachments in unsolicited emails.
If you believe you may be scammed, the ATO has a hotline to help you out: 1800 008 540. Alternatively you can forward suspicious emails to the ATO (ReportEmailFraud@ato.gov.au) for them to investigate further.
