FOR MORE than 15 years local accountant Noela Lee has been diligently preparing tax returns for Scenic Rim residents.
In that time she has occasionally heard stories from clients of how their myGov or ATO account has been compromised.
Now she says that rare complaint has started to get much louder with more and more clients getting caught in online stings.
“It has never been as bad as it is right now, it seems the scammers are getting craftier as they set their traps,” she said.
“Most of the scams appear to be coming through as text messages to phones asking people to press links for more information.
“Of course, if they do the scammers can then access their victim’s details grabbing their tax file number and even adjusting their tax returns.
“Some scammers go so far as to modify bank details for refunds and in other cases they will even submit a false tax return.”
Services Australia who look after myGov accounts are aware that scammers are continually trying new ways to pick-pocket Australians searching for private ATO details and tax file numbers.
They say they employ the highest security measures, but advise it is the responsibility of all to be cautious of fake texts and emails claiming to be from the ATO or MyGov.
Noela said once someone’s myGov account is compromised it is locked down resulting amongst other things in delays in receiving tax returns.
“People need to keep their guard up at all times when they suddenly receive a message from any government department.
“Check it out first before replying or pressing a link,” she advised.
