July 12, 2026 · by David Gilbert · 3 min read · Security & Scams
Every year, as tax season ramps up, so do the scammers. Fake messages claiming to be from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) flood inboxes and phones, hoping to catch people off guard while tax is on their mind. These scams are getting more convincing, but they almost always give themselves away if you know what to look for. Here's how to stay safe.
How These Scams Work
The goal is almost always the same: to trick you into handing over personal information, banking details, or money. A scammer might claim you're owed a refund and need to "confirm your details", or that you owe a debt that must be paid immediately to avoid arrest or a fine. They rely on creating urgency and fear so you act before you think.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Urgency and threats. The real ATO won't threaten you with immediate arrest or demand you stay on the phone while you pay.
- Unusual payment methods. No legitimate agency asks to be paid in gift cards, cryptocurrency, or vouchers. This is a dead giveaway.
- Links asking you to log in. Be very wary of links in emails or texts. They often lead to fake websites designed to steal your details.
- Requests for personal info. The ATO already has your details and won't email or text asking you to confirm your tax file number or bank account.
- Poor spelling and odd addresses. Look closely at the sender's email address — scammers often use addresses that look almost right but aren't.
What to Do If You're Unsure
The safest rule of all: if a message asks you to click, call, or pay, stop. Don't use any contact details in the message itself. Instead, contact the organisation directly using a phone number or website you've looked up independently. A genuine matter will still be there when you call back through official channels.
Protect Yourself Year-Round
Good habits keep you safe well beyond tax time. Switch on two-factor authentication wherever you can, never reuse passwords, and keep your devices and security software up to date. If you're ever caught off guard and think you may have clicked something you shouldn't have, act quickly to change passwords and check your accounts.
Worried You've Been Caught Out?
Talk to Older Family Members
Scammers often target older people, who may be less familiar with the warning signs. If you have elderly parents or relatives, a friendly conversation about these scams can make a real difference. Let them know that no genuine organisation will pressure them, threaten them, or ask for payment in gift cards, and reassure them it's always okay to hang up and check. A five-minute chat could save them from a very costly mistake.
If you think you've fallen for a scam or your device may be compromised, don't panic — but do act. Your Local Tech Solutions can check your device for malware, help secure your accounts, and give you peace of mind. Get in touch for friendly, judgement-free help.
This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from the ATO or a qualified professional.
