As tax return preparations are now in full swing, residents are being warned to stay vigilant when filling out their digital paperwork, and double – and triple – check any tax-related processes online before hitting send or submit.
The warning comes after Cyber Safety Gen brand Norton released concerning new data that revealed 14 per cent of Australians had personally experienced cybercrime in the past 12 months, with the average amount lost to cybercrime being just over $850.
Although tax time can be stressful, residents are urged not to use ‘quick-fix’ tax return systems, which may claim to be the Australian Tax Office (ATO), or a sub-branch of the ATO, and instead file a tax return either directly through myGov or a reputable accountant.
Managing Director for Norton Mark Gorrie said cybercrime incidents often spiked during tax time.
“There are certain times each year that pique cybercriminals’ interest, and tax time continues to be one of them. With the amount of personal and financial information that is being stored and shared at this time, coupled with the stress that comes with filing tax returns, it is the perfect storm for scammers to target Australians,” he said.
“It can be easy to fall into the trap of a scammer offering to ease this burden. However, it is important to understand that Cyber Safety practices should never be sacrificed in exchange for convenience.
“AI is aiding cybercriminals in evolving and developing their devious tactics – it is more important than ever that Australians are continuing to educate themselves on the warning signs.”
To keep safe, Mr Gorrie urged residents to follow the below:
Keep your tax file number (TFN) safe. Shred personal documents, and ensure online accounts, such as myGov, are protected with strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
Never respond to, or accept a text, email, message, or link from anyone who claims to be from the ATO. If you accept a call from someone who claims to be the ATO, and are unsure whether it is legitimate, hang up, and call the ATO back on 13 28 61 to validate the caller’s authenticity.
Avoid services from people who claim to be accountants offering maximum tax refunds and a speedy return. Only lodge tax returns with a reputable accountant, and preferably a brick-and-mortar business. If someone does approach you claiming to be a tax practitioner, you can check that they are registered on the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) by visiting their website to verify the legitimacy of their claims.
Never share your myGov password with anyone. Sharing your information with an unregistered practitioner puts your personal and financial affairs at risk.
If you suspect your TFN and identity has been compromised, immediately report the incident to the ATO and contact your bank to notify them of the incident, who can block illegitimate transactions and keep your money safe.
Finally, remember that you have until October 31 to lodge your tax return, so take it slowly and cautiously.
