Beware of Scammers During Tax Season: A Warning for Australians
As Australians prepare to submit their tax returns, Services Australia has issued a stern warning about the increasing threat of scams targeting unsuspecting citizens. With over 15 million individuals required to lodge their financial information with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) following July 1, scammers are seizing this opportunity to exploit vulnerable taxpayers.
Common Scamming Tactics
Fraudsters frequently impersonate government organisations such as myGov and Centrelink, deploying mass text messages and emails to mislead Australians. "They pretend to be us so they can steal your personal information and money," Services Australia cautioned. If scammers manage to gain access to your personal details, they can commit identity fraud or even file false tax returns on your behalf through accounts like myGov.
This year’s scams have become increasingly sophisticated. Many fraudsters are highlighting enticing offers, such as one-time payments or tax rebates, particularly as individuals hope for economic relief amid rising living costs. Others may warn victims of issues with their myGov accounts, claiming that their accounts are at risk of being “frozen or suspended.”
Urgent Messages and Links to Avoid
Scammers often employ urgent language in their communications to incite hasty actions. These messages usually include links or URLs that users are advised to avoid entirely. "Don’t click on the internet link," Services Australia urges. If individuals have already engaged with a suspicious link or shared personal details, they are encouraged to visit the official Services Australia website for guidance on next steps.
If you’ve encountered a scam, Services Australia provides several resources for support, including:
- Advice on safeguarding personal information.
- Guidance on reviewing customer records for suspicious activity.
- Assistance with correcting any erroneous records.
- Recommendations for implementing additional security measures to prevent unauthorised access.
Escalating Scams: A National Concern
The ATO has echoed these concerns, reporting a staggering 150 per cent increase in impersonation scams in the past year, with email being the primary channel for 90 per cent of these fraudulent activities. ATO assistant commissioner Rob Thomson noted, "This is the time of year when people are awaiting their tax returns or expecting to hear from the ATO, and scammers know it."
To mitigate such risks, the ATO has enhanced security features within its app, allowing Australians to monitor their accounts in real-time. If any modifications occur without the user’s consent, they can quickly secure their accounts to prevent further damage. Thomson advises receiving suspicious notifications should prompt immediate action: "Lock your account in our app and verify the interaction on the ATO website or call 1800 467 033 during business hours," he suggested.
Conclusion
As Australians embark on their annual task of tax returns, vigilance is crucial. By staying informed and cautious, taxpayers can help protect themselves from the rising tide of scams, ensuring their personal information and finances remain secure. For further updates and information, follow Yahoo Finance on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
