Tax Fraud Scams and myGov threats are on the rise in Australia, with scammers increasingly targeting myGov accounts to steal personal information and claim fraudulent tax refunds. If you’re wondering how safe your myGov account is, you’re not alone. Australians across all age groups are being caught out by clever and sophisticated scams.
Imagine logging into your myGov account and finding your activity statements amended and GST refunds issued—but you never made those changes. Sadly, this is now one of the most common ways Tax Fraud Scams and myGov threats unfold. Scammers access accounts, change banking details, and submit altered information to claim fake refunds, all while appearing legitimate.
In many cases, the scammers gain access because people unknowingly hand over their details through phishing emails, fake websites, or SMS links.
Understanding how Tax Fraud Scams and myGov systems are exploited is more important than ever.
How Tax Fraud Scams Work
Fraudsters usually begin by stealing your login information. They often send emails or SMS messages that look like they’re from the ATO or another government service. These messages might:
- Warn you about a supposed attack on your account
- Promise a tax refund if you click a link
- Mimic ATO notifications about new messages
About 75% of email scams reported to the ATO were linked to fake myGov sign-in pages. Once scammers access your account, they can:
- Lodge false activity statements
- Claim fake GST refunds
- Alter PAYG instalments
- Target other linked government services
The more information scammers have, the more damage they can do. They can even open new accounts in your name or access social security benefits.
How to Spot a Fake Message
Protecting your personal information starts with knowing what to look out for. Here are some signs that a message or call might be fake:
- Hyperlinks in messages: The ATO and myGov never send clickable links.
- Requests for sensitive information: They will never ask for your TFN, bank account, or login details via email or social media.
- QR codes or unusual login methods: These are not used by myGov or the ATO.
- Pre-recorded phone messages: The ATO does not use automated calls about tax debts.
- Fake conference calls: The ATO won’t initiate three-way calls between you, a supposed tax agent, and law enforcement.
Always access your myGov account directly by typing the address into your browser, never through a link. And remember, avoid logging into myGov using public Wi-Fi. It’s simply not worth the risk.
Who Is at Risk of Tax Scams?
Contrary to popular belief, tax scams are not just targeting older Australians. In fact, younger people are increasingly falling victim.
The ATO reports that individuals aged 25 to 34 are the most likely to provide personal information to scammers. Additionally, people under 50 now represent the majority of investment scam victims, particularly involving cryptocurrency.
In the 2023–24 financial year, Australians lost an alarming $382 million to investment scams alone.
Tax Fraud Scams and myGov misuse aren’t just a problem for one age group—they affect everyone.
Common Types of Tax-Related Scams
Scammers are constantly evolving. Some of the most common scams include:
Investment Scams
Known as “pig butchering,” these scams involve fraudsters building fake relationships over weeks or months to lure victims into fake investments. Cryptocurrency is a popular vehicle for these scams because it’s harder to trace.
Fake Refund Scams
You might receive an email or SMS telling you you’re entitled to a refund, but only if you first verify your details. Always remember that legitimate tax refunds will be processed automatically through official channels, without needing to provide information through links.
Threat-Based Scams
These scams rely on fear tactics, claiming your TFN is suspended due to criminal activity and demanding you pay a “fine” or transfer money to a so-called “safe” account.
Identity Theft
If scammers collect enough of your personal details, they can lodge tax returns, apply for loans, or even access social security benefits under your name.
How to Protect Yourself from Tax Scams
Here’s what you can do to stay safe:
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your myGov account
- Use strong, unique passwords for different accounts
- Check your myGov inbox regularly for legitimate messages
- Never share personal information via email, SMS, or social media
- Report suspicious emails directly to the ATO
Tax Fraud Scams and myGov security issues go hand in hand. If you suspect your details have been compromised, contact the ATO immediately or speak with a tax professional.
If You Fall Victim to a Scam
If you realise you’ve shared personal information or accessed a fake website:
- Change your myGov password immediately
- Notify the ATO and relevant banks
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity
- Report the scam to Scamwatch and the ATO
Quick action can limit the damage and help protect others from falling into the same trap.
Stay Informed to Stay Protected
Tax Fraud Scams and myGov related risks are a serious and growing problem in Australia. Knowing how they operate, how to spot them, and how to protect yourself is the best defence.
If you ever have concerns about your tax records or receive suspicious messages, don’t take risks. Speak with the team at Cotchy. We’re here to help keep your financial information secure and your peace of mind intact.
Source: ATO