Be aware of Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and ‘myGov’ impersonation scams.

With tax time 2026 fast approaching, Scamwatch and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) are reminding Australians to be aware of communications claiming to be from the ATO or ‘myGov’.

Scammers make phone calls, send fake emails, texts, or messages, and even create fake websites that look like the real thing but they’re not.

They create a sense of urgency to manipulate you into clicking links to fake websites or to download harmful attachments. They may also send messages urging you to call a phone number that connects you to the scammer.

Criminals design these communications to look real, using official logos, branding, and language to deceive people. The scammers may then use your stolen personal information, including your myGov sign in details, to commit fraud in your name.

All Australians are at risk, including those who are not required to lodge a tax return.

The header above is an example of an ATO / ‘myGov’ impersonation scam email.

Visit the Australian Taxation Office website for more information on how to protect your personal information and stay safe from these scammers.

Warning signs to look out for

  • Unexpected requests for personal or financial information, especially if they include a sense of urgency.
  • An unsolicited message with a link that claims to be from the ATO. The ATO will never do this.
  • The email or text includes a link that wants you to sign into your myGov account.
  • The email’s sender details do not match the legitimate government agency and do not end in ‘.gov.au’.

Protect yourself from tax time scams

STOP. Don’t rush. Don’t click links in unexpected messages or share passwords, one-time codes, or financial information.

CHECK. Contact the Australian Taxation Office using the official app or website or call 1800 008 540 to check if the contact is real.

PROTECT. If you shared money or personal information with a scammer, act quickly. Contact the ATO on 1800 008 540 to help protect your ATO accounts.

Visit Scamwatch to learn more about what to do if you’ve been scammed.

To report scams and find more info go to Scamwatch.gov.au

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