Centrelink issues ATO alert as Aussies submit their tax returns: 'Steal your money'

Yahoo

20-07-2025

Services Australia has warned Australians to have their wits about them as they submit their tax returns. More than 15 million people lodge their financial information with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) after July 1, and it's the perfect time for scammers to pounce on unsuspecting Aussies.
They often try to impersonate government bodies like myGov and Centrelink by sending out mass text messages and emails across the country. Services Australia said it can be dire if you let your guard down.
"They pretend to be us so they can steal your personal information and money after you click a link or give them your details," it said.
If they get access to your personal information, they can conduct identity fraud or log in to certain accounts like myGov and lodge fake tax returns on your behalf.
RELATED
ATO issues urgent tax return warning as Aussies risk losing over $1,500
Common neighbour problem plaguing Aussie houses
Compensation sought for millions of Qantas customers
How scammers are preying on Aussies during tax time
Services Australia has noticed scammers have been trying to catch out certain Aussies with certain tactics this year.
One is highlighting a one-time payment, tax rebate or other type of refund, as many will be hoping for a cost-of-living boost with their tax return.
They also might try to convince you that there is a problem with your myGov account, tax return information, or that your account is about to be "frozen or suspended".These hackers will usually use urgent language in their messages to make you act quickly.
Their correspondence to you will also typically include a link or URL, but Aussies have been urged to avoid this at all costs.
"Don't click on the internet link," Services Australia said.
"If you clicked on a suspicious link or gave personal information to a scammer, head to our website to find out what to do."
The government body said it can help in the following ways if you've been hacked or scammed:
offer support and advice about how to protect yourself and your personal information
check your customer records for any suspicious activity
make corrections to your records if needed
add extra security measures to prevent unauthorised access.
150 per cent jump in scams as ATO adds better protection
The ATO issued a similar warning about scammers ever since Aussies were able to submit their tax returns for the 2024-25 year.
The tax office had seen a 150 per cent increase in impersonation scams over the last 12 months, with 90 per cent of these being conducted via email.
'This is the time of year when people are awaiting their tax returns or expecting to hear from the ATO, and scammers know it,' ATO assistant commissioner Rob Thomson said.
The ATO has strengthened the security features on its app and Aussies can now monitor their accounts in real-time through alerts if changes have been made to their records.
If certain details are changed without your permission, you can instantly lock down your account to ensure nothing else is affected.
'If you receive a notification and something doesn't feel right, lock your account immediately in our app, and verify and report the interaction on the ATO website or by calling 1800 467 033 during business hours to discuss any suspicious activity," Thomson added.Sign in to access your portfolio