Protect Your myGov Account: Tax Fraud on the Rise
Imagine logging into your myGov account only to find that your activity statements have been amended and $100,000 worth of GST credits have been issued. The worst part? It wasn’t you. Unfortunately, this scenario is becoming more common as scammers hack into myGov accounts to steal personal data, amend tax returns, and issue fraudulent refunds.
How Scammers Get Access
Scammers are using clever tricks to get into myGov accounts. They send phishing emails or SMS messages that look like official communications from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). These messages might warn of attempted attacks, promise a tax refund, or ask you to confirm details through a fake link. Once you click, they gain access to your account. They can then change your details, amend tax information, and claim refunds in your name.
One of the most alarming aspects is that these scams often look completely legitimate. Scammers even know how to use the amendment periods in tax law to trigger refunds for income tax, GST, or PAYG instalments. The sophistication of these scams shows a deep knowledge of Australia’s tax and social security systems.
Common Scams Targeting myGov
The most reported scams include:
- Fake alerts: Messages that say there’s been an attack on your account, prompting you to click a link to verify your identity.
- Tax refund bait: Emails or texts offering a reward, like a tax refund, if you follow a link.
- Fake ATO notifications: Messages that seem like common ATO alerts, urging you to click a link to view a new message.
About 75% of all email scams reported to the ATO involve fake myGov login pages. Once the scammer has your details, they can do significant damage.
How to Spot a Fake
It’s essential to know the signs of a scam. Here are a few tips:
- The ATO, myGov, and Centrelink don’t use hyperlinks in messages. If there’s a link, it’s fake.
- They won’t ask for personal details like your tax file number (TFN) or bank details over social media or via pre-recorded messages.
- They won’t ask for your myGov login through an email or SMS.
- The ATO will never arrange a conference call between you, your tax agent, and a supposed law enforcement officer.
Whenever you get a suspicious message, log into your myGov account directly by typing the website into your browser rather than clicking on links.
Who’s Falling for These Scams?
There’s a common belief that older people are most at risk from these scams, but younger Australians are also falling victim. The ATO has reported that many of those who give away their personal details are aged between 25 and 34. Younger people are also more susceptible to investment scams, especially involving cryptocurrency, which made up almost half of all reported investment scam losses in the 2023-24 financial year.
Other Scams to Watch Out For
Scammers are becoming more creative, using methods like:
- Pig butchering: A scam where scammers build a relationship over time before convincing the victim to invest in fake schemes.
- Deepfakes: AI-generated images or videos of well-known figures promoting false investment opportunities.
- Fake invoices: Scammers use the names of legitimate businesses to send fake invoices, often tied to data breaches.
- Bank scams: Some scammers pretend to be from your bank and walk you through transferring your money into their account for “protection.”
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, there are steps you can take:
- For myGov-related scams: Contact Services Australia Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk on 1800 941 126.
- For tax-related scams: Verify with your tax agent or call the ATO on 1800 008 540 before taking any action.
Remember, the ATO will never cancel your TFN or ask for your details via a hyperlink or social media. Always stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to report suspicious activity.
