Watch Out For These ATO Scam Tricks

The ATO doesn’t ring you at dinnertime demanding payment via iTunes vouchers or threat-text you at midnight about non-existent debts.

If they do - you’re being scammed.

The ATO has seen a 300% increase in reported scams, so we’ve laid out what to look out for and what to do if you spot a scam

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1. Red Flags That Scream “Not the ATO”

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💸 Vouchers or Crypto Requests

If someone asks you to pay using Apple, Google, or Bitcoin vouchers, or says “quick, pay now or face arrest”... yeah that’s a scam. The ATO won’t ever insist you do that.

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📱 Dodgy Links in Emails or SMS

You get a text or email saying your tax return’s overdue or you owe money. It includes a link. How dodgy? If it’s urging you to click now, it's fishy. The ATO lets you log in securely through myGov, not through links in random messages.

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🤬 Fake Caller ID or Aggressive Language

Scammers spoof the ATO number so it shows up as “ATO” on your phone. They’ll use aggressive language, call you “non-compliant,” and even threaten jail. Actual ATO staff, whilst a challenge, are much more professional (and human) sounding.

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💰 “Surprise” Audits or Refunds

If someone tells you a refund is on the way… but only if you hand over account details first...run! The ATO doesn’t pay out with strings attached or unexpected catches.

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2. What the Real ATO Actually Does (and Doesn’t)

The real ATO:

• Sends letters through regular mail, your tax agent or secure messages via myGov. For PAL client’s, all correspondence will come from atomail@palaccounting.com.au.
• Never demands voucher payments, crypto, or any bizarre payment methods.
• Won’t use urgent or intimidating language like “law enforcement will arrest by tomorrow.” That’s movie stuff, not tax talk.
• Won’t call without context, and will always verify your identity if they do call.

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3. So… What Should You Do If Something Smells Fishy?

Pause and Check ✋

If you receive a message—even if it looks legit—don’t click, don’t call back on provided numbers. Head to myGov, log in, and check your ATO inbox and notices directly.

Report It 📣

• ATO impersonation scam? Send it to phishing@ato.gov.au (they’ll confirm if it’s a scam).
• You can also report the fraud to Scamwatch via scamwatch.gov.au. They collate info and warn the public.

Block and Delete 🚫

Block the caller/SMS sender, delete the message, and move on—don’t engage.

Check with Your Tax Agent 🙋

Your tax agent deals with ATO correspondence all day every day. They know what’s real and what’s not, so if you’re unsure check first.

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The bottom line

1. Don’t panic. Scams thrive on stress and fear.
2. Log into your myGov directly—never click on links.
3. Always double-check. Email ATO, check with your tax agent
4. Block, delete, and move on.

Stay sharp, stay savvy—and may your account be forever scam-free.

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– The team at PAL (making accounting slightly less boring since way back when)

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Disclaimer: This article is here to give you general info only, not professional advice specific to your unique situation. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, the content may change over time. We can’t take responsibility for any decisions based on the contents of this article, so be sure to chat with your accountant or advisor first!

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