Tax time in Australia is also peak season for scammers. Criminals know people expect messages from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), making it easier to trick victims into sharing money or personal details.
Common scams include fake phone calls, SMS messages, emails, and websites. Scammers may claim you owe tax, have a refund waiting, or face arrest or deportation if you don’t act immediately. These messages are designed to create fear and urgency so you respond without thinking.
The ATO will never demand immediate payment, ask for payment via gift cards or crypto, or threaten arrest over the phone. If someone does this, it is a scam.
Fake SMS and emails often include links to websites that look like myGov or ATO pages. Once you enter your login or banking details, scammers steal your information. Some also pretend to be tax agents offering “big refunds” or cheap services, but later submit false claims in your name, which can lead to penalties.
Warning signs include:
- Urgent threats or pressure to act quickly
- Requests for passwords, banking, or verification codes
- Demands for unusual payment methods
- Links to suspicious websites
To stay safe:
- Never click unknown links
- Always verify through official ATO/myGov websites
- Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication
- Contact the ATO directly if unsure
If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank immediately, change passwords, and report it to authorities.
Scammers often target new migrants and students who may not be familiar with how the Australian tax system works. Sharing awareness in the community is one of the best protections.
At dobato.au, we encourage everyone to stay alert and protect their hard-earned money during tax season.