Tax Time Scam Alert: Don’t Let Early Morning Emails Fool You

• Tax Scams
• Phishing Alerts
• End of Financial Year

Scammers are targeting Australians with fake ATO and myGov messages during tax season. Learn how to stay safe and spot a tax scam.

Tax Time Scams Are Back – Stay Alert

As the end of financial year approaches, tax scams are on the rise—and scammers are getting smarter. Certified Practising Accountants (CPA) Australia has issued a warning urging Australians to be extra cautious when checking emails or SMS messages first thing in the morning. These phishing scams are designed to catch you off guard, especially when you're still waking up.

A Surge in Scam Activity

According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), there has been a 300% increase in impersonation email scams this year. The National Anti-Scam Centre also reported that phishing scams accounted for a staggering $13.7 million in losses during the first four months of 2025—up from $4.6 million in the same period last year.

How Tax Scams Work

Scam messages often claim to be from the ATO or myGov and come with subject lines like “Urgent new notification in your account inbox” or “New refund available.” They usually include a link or QR code, urging recipients to click immediately to avoid penalties, claim refunds, or access government services.

Scammers intentionally send these messages early in the morning when people are likely to be less alert and more prone to clicking without thinking. They use real concerns—like taxes, refunds, and penalties—to create urgency and manipulate victims.

Spot the Red Flags

• Hyperlinks and QR codes: The ATO does not include clickable links or QR codes in unsolicited messages.
• Grammar and language: Look for American English spellings or awkward phrasing.
• Sender’s email address: Scam emails often use look-alike domains or insert extra characters into legitimate names.
• Urgent tone: Messages that urge you to act quickly or threaten penalties are almost always fake.
• Social media: The ATO won’t contact you about your personal account on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or X—even via direct message.

Protect Yourself This Tax Season

• Don’t act immediately: Take a moment to assess the message—especially before your morning coffee!
• Verify authenticity: Contact the ATO directly on 1800 008 540 or check the official ATO website.
• Never share personal data: The ATO will never ask for passwords, bank account numbers, or other sensitive information via email or SMS.
• Be cautious online: Always check for the official logo and blue tick verification if you're engaging with government profiles on social media.

Podcast Alert: Learn More About Tax Scams

CPA Australia is releasing a special podcast episode this June featuring Joda Water, Assistant Commissioner of Cyber Governance at the ATO. The episode will cover how to avoid scams and what to do if you’ve been targeted.

Final Thoughts

Scammers are constantly evolving, using clever tactics to catch people off guard. Stay vigilant, especially during tax time. Remember, a legitimate organisation will never pressure you into acting quickly or sharing sensitive information.

If in doubt, stop and double-check before you click.