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Increased Tax Scam Risks Ahead of Tax Time in Australia
Australians are being cautioned to remain vigilant as tax season approaches, with a substantial rise in impersonation scam emails reported by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The ATO has noted a shocking 300% increase in reports of such scams compared to the previous year, as scammers aim to capitalise on individuals’ anticipation of tax-related communication.
Surge in Scam Reports
Jenny Wong, a tax expert from CPA Australia, has highlighted that taxpayers should brace themselves for an influx of scam activity as the June 30 tax deadline approaches. "Scammers exploit busy times, targeting individuals with unsolicited messages that falsely claim to be from the ATO or other reputable entities,” she explained. These scams often impersonate legitimate communication and create an illusion of authenticity to catch recipients off guard.
Scammers typically craft messages that provoke urgency—claiming significant refunds or immediate action required—hoping that recipients will act quickly without thoroughly assessing the situation. For instance, fraudsters may send emails with subject lines such as “Urgent new notification in your account inbox” or “New Tax Lodgement.”
The Dangers of Phishing Scams
The methods employed by scammers often involve phishing tactics. These deceitful messages direct victims to log into their myGov accounts using links purportedly leading to secure government sites. However, these links can compromise personal information, allowing thieves to steal identities and engage in fraud.
Recent data illustrates the alarming reality of these scams: Australians lost $119 million to scams in just the first four months of 2025. Despite the number of overall scam reports declining by almost 25% to 72,230, losses linked to phishing scams surged to $13.7 million, nearly tripling from the previous period.
The ATO has advised that it will not employ hyperlinks in unsolicited messages. If a message contains such a link, it is almost certainly a scam. Additionally, the ATO will never request sensitive information such as passwords or account numbers via email or SMS.
What to Do if You Suspect a Scam
If you receive a suspicious message, it’s crucial to verify its authenticity. You can contact the ATO directly at 1800 008 540 or visit their official site to report or confirm scams. Awareness and vigilance are key to protecting your personal and financial information during this peak season of scam activity.
Taxpayers should remember to stay alert, particularly during moments of distraction that scammers often exploit. Always take the time to validate any unexpected communications claiming to be from the ATO.
In summary, as we approach tax time, the risk of falling victim to sophisticated scams increases significantly. Protect yourself by staying informed, cautious, and proactive.
