Victoria Police are urging the public to be wary of scammers targeting myGov sign-in details during Scams Awareness Week.
Since June 30, more than 300 reports of scams have been lodged, with losses totalling at least $2 million.
Scammers employ a range of tactics to steal personal information, including phishing emails and SMS messages that impersonate government agencies.
Common phrases currently being used by scammers include:
- 'You are due to receive an ATO Direct refund';
- 'You have a new message in your myGov inbox – click here to view’;
- 'You need to update your details to allow your Tax return to be processed’;
- 'We need to verify your incoming tax deposit';
- 'ATO refund failed due to incorrect BSB/Account number';
- ‘Your income statement is ready, click on the link to view’.
There are a number of steps people can take to protect themselves:
- Never click on a hyperlink that has been texted or emailed.
- Use a Digital ID, such as myGovID, to access ATO online services through myGov and set your online access strength to the highest level.
- Enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
- Consider setting up a passkey such as facial or fingerprint recognition.
If you suspect someone is using your tax information illegally or has stolen your personal identity documents, contact the ATO as soon as possible on 1800 467 033 or email reportscams@ato.gov.au
Anyone with any information on scam activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
For more information about myGov scams and what to do if you have been affected, visit https://my.gov.au/en/about/privacy-and-security/mygov-scams