Tax Authority Impersonation Scams: Fake Refunds and Debt Threats
Updated 26 January 2026
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Check Message →Tax time brings out the scammers. They impersonate the ATO, threatening arrest or promising refunds. These scams cost Australians millions every year — and they're alarmingly convincing.
Quick Verdict
What it usually is: Phishing for your myGov login, identity theft via personal information collection, or direct theft via fake "tax debt" payments.
Who gets targeted: Everyone, but especially around tax time (July-October) and just after tax returns are lodged.
What the ATO Will NEVER Do
- Threaten arrest over the phone — The ATO doesn't send police to your door over tax debt.
- Ask for payment via gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers — Scam payment methods, always.
- Send you a link via SMS to claim a refund — Refunds are processed through your tax return and myGov.
- Ask for your TFN, password, or credit card over phone/SMS — They already have your TFN, and never need your password.
- Request remote access to your computer — No legitimate agency does this.
Red Flags to Look For
- Links in SMS — Real ATO messages don't include clickable links.
- Threats of immediate arrest — "Police warrant has been issued" is a scam line.
- "Confirm your identity" links — Always go directly to my.gov.au.
- Fake myGov domains — mygov-refund.com, my-gov.com.au, mygov-au.net are all fake. Real is my.gov.au only.
- Unexpected refund announcements — If you haven't lodged, you're not getting a refund.
- Robocalls — Recorded messages saying to "press 1" are scams.
Realistic Examples
The Tax Refund SMS
"ATO: You are eligible for a tax refund of $1,847.00. Confirm your details to receive payment: mygov-tax-refund.com.au"
Reality: The ATO doesn't SMS refund links. That domain is fake. Real refunds go to your linked bank account automatically.
The Threatening Phone Call
"This is the Australian Taxation Office. There is a legal case against you for tax fraud. An arrest warrant will be issued in 24 hours unless you pay $3,200 immediately. Press 1 to speak to an officer."
Reality: Complete fiction. The ATO doesn't threaten arrest, doesn't use robocalls, and doesn't demand immediate payment. Hang up.
The myGov Email
Subject: "Important: Your myGov account requires verification"
From: noreply@mygov-services.com.au
Body: "Your account access will be suspended. Click here to verify your identity."
Reality: Fake domain. Real myGov emails come from @my.gov.au. Go directly to my.gov.au and log in — don't click the link.
What to Do Next
- Don't click links — Go directly to my.gov.au by typing it.
- Hang up on threatening calls — Real ATO officers don't threaten.
- Check your myGov inbox — Real ATO messages appear there.
- Call the ATO directly — 13 28 61 to verify any concerns.
- Report scams — Forward emails to ReportScam@ato.gov.au.
If You've Been Scammed
- Gave login details: Change your myGov password immediately. Check linked services (Medicare, Centrelink, ATO) for changes.
- Gave personal info (TFN, DOB, address): Contact IDCARE (1800 595 160) — free identity protection support.
- Sent money: Contact your bank immediately. Report to police via ReportCyber.
- Report to ATO: Email ReportScam@ato.gov.au with details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do scammers know I'm expecting a refund?
They don't. They send millions of messages around tax time, knowing many people are expecting refunds. It's a numbers game.
Does the ATO ever call people?
Yes, sometimes. But they'll never threaten arrest, demand immediate payment, or ask for unusual payment methods. They'll give you time and options.
Can scammers lodge a fake tax return in my name?
Yes, identity theft for tax fraud is real. Protect your myGov with a strong password and 2FA. Check your ATO account regularly.
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