ATO SCAM ALERT!
Did the ATO call you on your cell phone? Answer – probably not…
There’s a new version of an old tax scam doing the rounds, but guess what scammers, we’re exposing your secrets:
- First, they’ll call with an automated message saying they’re from the “tax department” saying you’re being audited.
- You’ll be asked to select an option to be put through an operator (*cough scammer*) – who says you owe a tax debt.
- If you question the caller or hang up, you’ll likely receive a call back about 30 mins later which “appears” to come from an AFP phone number in Sydney. (For all you detectives, it looks like the AFP. BUT IT’S NOT, the scammers are just imitating their switchboard).
- An “AFP Federal Officer” will then claim you’ll be arrested unless you pay the fine. DO NOT PAY!
While these calls may appear to be from the ATO, remember that they will never:
- threaten you with arrest
- demand immediate payment, particularly through unusual means such as bitcoin, prepaid credit cards or gift cards
- encourage you not to speak with a trusted advisor or your regular tax agent
- project a number on caller ID.
And the AFP will never request payment of fines or other monies over the phone.
If you receive a call from the ATO regarding an outstanding debt, please contact us before you pay any money to confirm that is a legitimate debt.
If you believe you or someone you know might be a scam victim, or have any information, you can report it through SCAMwatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au) or your local police.