Latest scam has a nasty twist

Scams involving fraudsters claiming to be from the tax office are common and a new rip-off is doing the rounds, with 683 reported instances since January 1. Seven victims have lost nearly $118,000.

The scam involves someone claiming to be from the ATO and saying that:

• Because scammers have your tax file number it has been suspended. You need to transfer all your money to us in order to protect it while we sort it out; or

• Your TFN has been used illegally and you need to move all the money in your bank account to a holding account pending the outcome of legal action.

While scammers usually ask for a specific amount of money, this time they’re requesting victims transfer all the funds in their bank account.

Although the ATO does call taxpayers, it will never send unsolicited pre-recorded phone messages; use aggressive or rude behaviour, or threaten you with immediate arrest, jail or deportation; suspend your TFN; request direct transfers of money to a personal bank account; or project an ATO number onto your caller ID.

The tax office says that if you receive a suspicious call, email or SMS, you should hang up or not respond. Instead, phone its dedicated scam line 1800 008 540 to check if it was legitimate. You can also report a scam online at ato.gov.au/reportascam.