ATO issues warning about ‘myGov’ email scam
The Australian Taxation Office is warning Australians to be on the lookout for phishing emails that appear to be from “myGov” designed to steal people’s personal information.
In an online alert, the tax man said it had received reports of the scam hitting Australians’ inboxes.
“Scammers pretending to be from the ‘myGov customer care team’ are sending emails telling people they need to verify their identity by clicking on a link,” the ATO stated in an alert.
Aussies should be careful not to take any action prompted by the email, it added.
“Don’t click any links and don’t provide the information requested.
“The link goes to a fake myGov log-on page designed to steal your personal information, including your passport and driver’s licence details.”
Australians will be notified via email or text whenever there is a new message to be read in the myGov inbox, the ATO said.
“However, these messages will never include a link to log on to your myGov account.”
These are the only ways to access myGov
Australians wanting to use myGov’s services should only access myGov in one of three ways, the ATO said.
That’s through the websites my.gov.au, ato.gov.au and through the ATO app.
Users should also be sure to download the myGovID app through Apple’s official app store or through the Google Play store.
Any texts or emails that purport to be from myGov but havea link, or look suspicious, should be reported to ScamWatch.
And if you believe you’ve clicked on a suspicious link or given away your personal details, let Services Australia’s Scam and Identity Theft Helpdesk know via 1800 941 126.
Aussies can report scams to the ATO through its website.
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