The ATO is warning taxpayers to protect their personal and
financial details following a sharp spike in reports of tax-related
email scams.
Since June, reports from the public of 'phishing' scams
have quadrupled from 3,586 to 15,441 compared with the same period
last year.
"While the public is reporting scam emails to the ATO in
increasing numbers, scammers are also becoming more sophisticated
in the way they trick taxpayers into handing over their personal
details," Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan said.
"We advise people to be vigilant of emails that mimic the
ATO's online publications. Think very carefully before
clicking on links and attachments in emails or on social networking
sites.
"The ATO will never send taxpayers an email asking them
to confirm, update or disclose confidential information including
your name, date of birth, home address, passwords or credit card
details."
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