Scam Alert for Business Owners: Don’t Fall for ATO Email Traps
Tax season is prime time for scammers—and business owners are top targets. With a 300% spike in ATO impersonation email scams compared to last year, now is the time to take action. If you’re running a business, safeguarding your identity and information is no longer optional. It’s essential.
How Scammers Operate and What You Can Do
Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated. They mimic the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) with emails, texts, and even fake portals—designed to steal your login credentials, bank account details, or tax file number (TFN).
To protect yourself and your team, follow these three critical steps:
✅ 1. Stop
- Never share your ATO online services login or MyGov ID.
- Only disclose sensitive details like your TFN or banking info if you trust the person and know exactly why they need it.
- If something feels off, pause before responding
✅ 2. Check
- Verify every message claiming to be from the ATO. Ask: could this be fake?
- Avoid clicking links or scanning QR codes unless you’re sure they’re legitimate.
- Be cautious of urgent language designed to pressure you.
✅ 3. Protect
- Report suspicious messages immediately.
- Monitor your ATO account and emails for unusual activity.
- Enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
What Business Owners Are Facing
At Aero Accounting Group, we’ve seen firsthand how scam tactics can shake the confidence of even the most experienced business owners. One client recently received a convincing email that claimed to be from the ATO, asking for an overdue payment via a QR code. Fortunately, they reached out to us first. Because of their quick thinking—and our guidance—they avoided a major breach.
ATO impersonation scams tend to increase dramatically during peak lodgement periods. The messages often contain:
- Fake tax refund notifications
- Urgent payment requests
- Requests for identity verification
- Fake tax refund notifications
The ATO has made it clear:
They will never ask for personal information, login credentials, or payments via social media platforms.
They will never send unsolicited messages with embedded links requesting sensitive data.
Stay Ahead with Aero Accounting Group
Protecting your business starts with staying informed. At Aero Accounting Group, we support business owners through every stage of their journey—from lodgement to compliance to risk prevention. Our team stays updated on ATO alerts so you don’t have to navigate the noise alone.
Ready to safeguard your business?
Book a free consultation with Aero Accounting Group today. Whether you’re concerned about a suspicious message or simply want proactive protection strategies, we’re here to help.
Don’t wait for the worst to happen. Act now. Connect with Aero Accounting Group and stay one step ahead of ATO impersonation scam
Need help?
Not sure if your current accountant is a good long-term fit? Contact us at Aero Accounting Group today and we’ll help you minimise your taxes and maximise your profits
