Picture this: You log into your myGov account, only to discover that your activity statements for the past year have been altered, and GST credits of $100,000 have been issued. But you didn’t receive any such refund. What happened?
Unfortunately, this scenario is becoming more common. Scammers are targeting myGov accounts, changing bank details, and using personal information to generate large, fraudulent refunds. And often, the way they gain access is simpler than you might think.
How Scammers Are Targeting myGov Accounts
It’s not just activity statements that scammers are after. Any myGov-linked service that can issue refunds or payments, like personal income tax and PAYG instalments, is a target. With a good understanding of tax laws, scammers are able to amend information in these accounts to create fake refunds.
Once they access your account, there’s a lot they can do. Here are the common ways scammers lure victims and how you can stay alert.
Common Scams and Red Flags
Scammers usually reach out via email or SMS, often mimicking official ATO messages. Here’s what to watch for:
- Fake Warnings: Messages warning of attempted attacks on your account, asking you to click a link to confirm your details.
- Baiting with Refunds: Emails or texts promising a tax refund and asking you to click a link to claim it.
- Fake Notifications from the ATO: Messages stating you have a new message from the ATO, with a link to view it.
Approximately 75% of reported scams in 2024 involved fake myGov sign-in pages. These emails and texts might look real, but there are ways to tell them apart.
How to Spot a Fake Message
Often, you’ll notice something odd about the message. Here are signs that the communication may be a scam:
- Hyperlinks in Messages: The ATO, Centrelink, and myGov won’t send messages with clickable links.
- No Requests for Sensitive Information: The ATO will never ask for your tax file number, bank account details, or myGov login over social media.
- No QR Codes: The ATO doesn’t use QR codes to access accounts.
- No Conference Calls: The ATO won’t initiate a call with you, your tax agent, and law enforcement on the line.
Always log in to your myGov account directly (without clicking on a link) to check for new messages. And never use free WiFi networks to access your account.
Who Is Being Targeted?
There’s a misconception that only older people fall for these scams. In reality, all age groups are affected. The ATO reports that individuals aged 25-34 are the most likely to provide personal information to scammers. Younger people are also highly susceptible to investment scams, especially those involving cryptocurrency.
What to Do if You’ve Been Scammed
If you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam, take action immediately:
- For myGov Issues: Contact the Services Australia Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk at 1800 941 126.
- For Tax-Related Scams: Contact us first so we can verify any instructions. If needed, call the ATO’s scam hotline at 1800 008 540.
Staying vigilant is the best way to protect yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and double-check with a trusted source. If you’re ever unsure, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help keep you and your business safe from scams.
