Government warns of 'malicious' myGov scammers

The Government has urged Australians to be vigilant regarding scammers who target ATO login details to commit tax fraud. The ATO has received a large number of reports of scammers using fake myGov sites to steal myGov sign-in details, which can be used to commit tax and refund fraud in other people's

names.

These criminals will often use text message or email to lure people into clicking a link using phrases such as 'You are due to receive an ATO Direct refund' or 'You have a new message in your myGov inbox - click here to view'.

The Government says the ATO or myGov will never send an email or text message with a link to sign in to myGov.

Last year, the ATO introduced new fraud controls to help protect Australians from online identity theft. This included using myGovID to strengthen security during the sign-in processes on myGov accounts, making it more difficult for criminals to gain access.

Also discussed in this month's edition:

• What to know about disaster relief payments
• Illegal early access to super
• ATO issues warning about false invoicing arrangements
• NFPs need to get ready for new return
• Taxpayer unsuccessful in having excess contributions reallocated

Disclaimer: the above comments in this blog post are general in nature and anyone intending to apply the information to practical circumstances should seek professional advice to independently verify their interpretation and the information’s applicability to their particular circumstances.

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