As the end of the financial year (EOFY) approaches, many Australians are gathering documents, receipts, and tax statements. But it’s just as important to prepare for something else: staying safe from tax scams.
With over $119 million lost to scams in just the first four months of 2025, scammers are exploiting every opportunity, including the tax system. To help keep you and your money safe, COBA’s Financial Crimes and Cyber Resilience team share expert tips on how to spot and avoid tax scams.
What is a tax scam, and how do they work?
Tax scams often involve criminals impersonating government agencies like the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or myGov. These scammers send phishing emails or text messages to trick you into sharing personal information – such as your myGov username, password, or other sensitive details – or to get you to click malicious links.
How can you protect yourself from tax scams?
Here are four key ways to stay safe:
1. Verify the source
Always double-check the sender’s email address. Official messages from myGov typically come from addresses ending in @my.gov.au. Don’t respond unless you’re certain it’s legitimate.
2. Avoid clicking on links
If you receive an email or text with a link claiming to be from myGov, don’t click it. Instead, type the official website address directly into your browser: https://www.my.gov.au
3. Be wary of urgency or threats
Scammers often try to pressure you with urgent messages – like threats to suspend your account or offers of unexpected refunds. These are red flags. Stay calm and verify the claim independently.
4. Never share personal details
myGov and government agencies will never ask for your password, Tax File Number (TFN), or bank details via email or text. Never share this information in response to unsolicited messages.
How do you report a tax scam?
If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from myGov or another government agency, it’s important you report it to protect yourself and others from being scammed.
- Report it to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) or the myGov Help Desk
- If it’s related to the ATO:
- Call the ATO’s dedicated scam line: 1800 008 540
- Forward suspicious emails to ReportScams@ato.gov.au
- Take a screenshot of fake social media posts or phishing messages and email them to ReportScams@ato.gov.au
More information about how to report a tax scam can be found on the ATOs website.