At Hills Accounting Hobart, we're dedicated to helping you manage your finances wisely. This week, we’re tackling a pressing issue that affects both individuals and businesses alike: scams.
The Rise of Sophisticated Scams
Did you know that scammers cost Australians over $3 billion in 2022?
With the growing reliance on digital platforms, scammers have only become more cunning. These scams highlight the need for vigilance now more than ever.
One recent alarming trend involves fake copies of the official my.Gov website being used to steal sensitive information.
In October 2024, Services Australia identified fraudulent websites advertising a non-existent "$890 cost of living bonus payment" from Centrelink. Check This Story Here.
These sites, appearing as ads online and on social media, prompted users to enter personal details under the guise of checking eligibility. Scammers then used this information to access and lock victims out of their my.Gov accounts.
In a more recent version of this scam, emails are sent to people advising that the ATO has a question regarding their tax returns and provides a link to a site that looks very realistic.
Having received one, we know they will look something like this:
FROM: myGov <noreply(AT)mesiud*****.com>
TO: Your email Address
<body
Dear ATO TaxPayer,
We are writing to follow up on the status of a pending matter related to your MYGov account. we believe there is outstanding action or request that requires attention. Could you kindly provide an update on the following:
• Issue/Request: Pending Payment Transaction
• Date of Notification: 1/12/2025
Please Update here : ATO MyGov Portal to update details.
We would appreciate your assistance in resolving this matter as soon as possible. If there are any additional steps I need to take or further information required, please let me know.
Thank you for your time and support.
Kind regards,
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