Protect Yourself from ATO Tax Scams in 2025

Tax time always brings stress, but in recent years, scammers have turned it into a lucrative season. Across Australia, and here in Miranda and the wider Sutherland Shire, people are receiving fake texts, phishing emails, and fraudulent calls claiming to be from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). These scams are becoming more convincing, which makes awareness your best defence .

Why ATO Scams Are Growing

Scammers know that at tax time, we’re expecting contact from the ATO. Lodging a return, waiting for a refund, chasing up a Business Activity Statement (BAS) — it’s all prime ground for fraudsters.

In 2025, the ATO reports that:

• Text scams are increasingly mimicking MyGov notifications.

• Fake emails with subject lines like “Tax refund available” are circulating.

• Fraudulent BAS lodgement requests are targeting small business owners.

• Phone scams continue, with callers claiming urgent tax debts .

The danger isn’t just losing money. Many of these scams are designed to harvest personal data, which criminals can later use for identity theft.

The Most Common ATO Scams in 2025

Let’s break down the scams currently circulating across Australia and here in the Sutherland Shire.

1. Fake ATO Emails

These phishing emails often use the ATO logo and professional language. They’ll claim you’re due a refund or need to update details. The telltale signs are dodgy links, poor grammar, or sender addresses that don’t match official ATO domains.

2. Suspicious Text Messages

Text scams now look almost identical to real MyGov notifications. They often contain links to “log in” or “claim a refund.” The ATO has made it clear: it will never send clickable links in SMS .

3. BAS Lodgement Scams

Small businesses in Miranda and greater Sydney have been receiving fake BAS lodgement reminders. These emails push you to lodge through a scam portal that looks convincing. For busy café owners on Kingsway or tradies working across the Shire, these scams can slip through the cracks.

4. Tax Debt Phone Calls

Scammers pose as ATO officers, threatening arrest unless an “urgent tax debt” is paid. They’ll often demand payment via cryptocurrency, gift cards, or money transfer services — clear red flags .

How to Spot the Red Flags

ATO scams can feel real in the moment, especially when they play on fear or urgency. A few habits will help keep you safe:

• Check the sender: Official ATO emails end in .gov.au. Anything else is suspect.

• Never click links in SMS or email: Always log in to MyGov or ATO portals by typing the address manually.

• Don’t be rushed: The ATO won’t threaten immediate arrest or demand unusual payment methods.

• Verify directly: Call the ATO on 1800 008 540 if you’re unsure about any message .

Why Small Businesses in Miranda Are Targets

Scammers know small business owners juggle BAS, GST, payroll, and tax deadlines. They also know you’re busy. That’s why industries like hospitality, trades, and retail — common across the Shire — are often targeted. A scam email disguised as a BAS reminder can easily get lost among genuine accounting tasks.

For example, a local café owner on Kiora Road may get a fraudulent BAS notice during peak tax season. With staff to manage and suppliers to pay, it’s easy to miss the subtle signs of fraud.

What To Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you think you’ve received a scam message:

1. Do not click links or download attachments.

2. Forward the email to reportscams@ato.gov.au

3. Delete the message immediately.

4. Check your MyGov or ATO account directly to confirm if any action is required.

If you’ve already given away information, contact your bank straight away and report the scam to IDCARE, Australia’s identity theft support service.

Staying Scam-Safe in 2025

Here are practical steps to protect your business:

• Use multi-factor authentication on MyGov and accounting platforms.

• Regularly update passwords for email and business accounts.

• Train staff to spot scam communications — especially if they handle bookkeeping.

• Keep accounting software updated and backed up.

Local Support for Miranda Businesses

Trident Accounting, based right here in Miranda, works with local small businesses daily. From BAS lodgements to tax planning, we’ve seen how scams can cause real headaches. Having a trusted adviser helps filter out the noise.

Whether you’re running a shop at Westfield Miranda or a trade business servicing the Sutherland Shire, staying alert to ATO scams is just as important as keeping on top of your books.

Final Word

Scams thrive on confusion and fear. By slowing down, double-checking, and staying informed, you can protect both your personal finances and your business.