The story of Cathryn Stavert and her son highlights a troubling trend where criminals hijack myGov accounts to lodge fraudulent tax returns and divert refunds into their own pockets. Stavert and her Son did not see a penny.
Stavert’s ordeal began with a startling discovery: someone had already filed a tax return on behalf of her son, complete with a promise to release a hefty refund unless they acted swiftly. This scenario, described as “international organised crime at its worst” by experts, underscores the brazen tactics employed by scammers.
David Lacey, a cyber specialist, explains that these scams typically involve convincing text messages or emails impersonating myGov or the tax office. Victims unwittingly provide sensitive details on fake websites, enabling criminals to submit tax returns before the legitimate taxpayers even have a chance.
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) acknowledges the severity of the issue, admitting to struggling against increasingly sophisticated scams. In the past three years alone, over half a billion dollars have been siphoned through fake tax returns. Rob Thomson from the ATO revealed that they receive an alarming 45 reports of scams daily, reflecting the scale and frequency of these attacks.
Moreover, the fallout from such scams can be long-lasting. Stavert and her son remain locked out of their myGov account more than a year later, highlighting the bureaucratic and personal toll these incidents exact. As such, victims can find it harder to get the assistance they need.
The broader implications extend beyond individual losses. With thousands of Australians affected each year, public confidence in digital government services is at stake. Lacey emphasises that scammers exploit well-known brands like myGov precisely because of their ubiquity and trustworthiness among the population.
As tax season approaches, vigilance is paramount. The ATO advises individuals to verify any unexpected communications directly with them, especially regarding changes to personal details. Multiple contact numbers and heightened awareness can serve as vital defenses against these increasingly pervasive scams.
In essence, the evolving nature of cybercrime demands a proactive response from both authorities and citizens alike. Safeguarding personal information and staying informed about potential threats are essential steps in combating this insidious form of financial fraud.
Strengthening cybersecurity measures and enhancing public awareness will be crucial in protecting Australians from falling prey to these malicious schemes in the future.
Contact Accountancy Insurance
We would love to hear from you.
About Accountancy Insurance
Thousands of accounting firms offer our tax audit insurance solution, Audit Shield to their clients.
Find out why.