ATO issues another warning about scams

The Tax Commissioner, Michael D'Ascenzo, has reminded the community to be aware and alert to people claiming to be from the ATO. "We are seeing an increase in the number, creativity and sophistication of scams being reported," Mr D'Ascenzo said.

"Scammers are ramping up their efforts and we are seeing a range of sophisticated scams, including:

• phone calls that play a legitimate-sounding recorded 'training and monitoring' message at the start of the call;
• phone calls from people posing as 'tax officers' that provide fraudulent ATO call-back details;
• emails about the recipient's tax refund, special deals and donations that are made to appear to have come from the ATO and use 'ATO or government' in the email address; and
• emails containing a dangerous virus, which when opened or downloaded will crash the recipient's computer.

"You can forward suspect email scams to ReportEmailFraud@ato.gov.au or call us during business hours on 1800 060 062 to discuss a suspected scam.

"Anyone can be the victim of a scam. If something seems suspicious, too good to be true, asks you for personal details or cannot be verified by contacting an official source, it is likely to be a scam and you should report it."