At Cotchy, protecting your security is our top priority. We’re here to keep you informed about the latest scams targeting taxpayers and share tips to help safeguard your personal and financial information. Let’s look at the latest: myID ATO scam.
Latest ATO Scam Alert regarding myID
The ATO has identified new impersonation scams appearing in emails, phone calls, and text messages. These scams aim to steal personal information and gain unauthorised access to accounts. Here are the key details to help you recognise and safeguard yourself against the myID ATO scam and other fraudulent activities:
ATO Scam Examples
- Email Scam
- Scammers impersonating the ATO or myGov are falsely claiming that taxable incomes have been recalculated, offering compensation in return for personal information.
- The information being requested includes payslips, tax file numbers (TFNs), driver’s licenses, and Medicare details.
- Scammers can exploit this information for identity theft, refund fraud, or to gain unauthorised access to your superannuation.
- myGovID to myID Scam
Fact: myGovID has been renamed to myID. No action is required on your part—there’s no need to set up a new myID or reconfirm your details. If you’re prompted to do so, it’s a scam.
-
- Scammers are taking advantage of the name change that occurred in mid-November from myGovID to myID.
-
- They may send deceptive emails asking you to verify your details through fake links.
- These links lead to fraudulent myGov sign-in pages designed to capture your login credentials.
Find out more at: www.myID.gov.au/DiscovermyID
How to Stay Safe from the myID ATO scam
- Don’t engage with emails, calls, or SMS claiming to be from the ATO unless you are sure they are legitimate.
- Always access services directly by typing ato.gov.au or my.gov.au into your browser.
- Never provide personal identifying information like TFNs or driver’s licence numbers via unsolicited requests.
- Verify suspicious interactions by calling the ATO directly at 1800 008 540 or visiting the ATO’s official Verify or report a scam
- Only download the myID app (formerly myGovID) from trusted app stores (Google Play or the App Store).
Important Reminders
- The ATO will never send SMS or emails with links to log on to online services.
- Unsolicited messages asking for personal information are always a scam.
- Avoid clicking on links, opening attachments, or downloading files from suspicious emails or SMS.
- The ATO will not use social media platforms to discuss personal information, send payment requests, or provide links.
The following image is one example of the format this scam can take.
We encourage you to remain vigilant and stay informed about these scams to protect yourself and your business.
For further scam alerts, visit the ATO website or contact the ATO directly.
Want to chat with our team at Cotchy about your bookkeeping and accounting? Contact us via our website.