Centrelink Warning: Watch Out for Tax Scams

As tax time kicks into gear across Australia, Centrelink has issued a timely warning to Aussies about a new wave of tax scams targeting those submitting their returns. The alert comes as fraudsters ramp up efforts to steal identities and intercept tax refunds using fake myGov and ATO messages.

What’s Happening?

Scammers are posing as government agencies—including Centrelink and the ATO—sending texts and emails that appear legitimate but are designed to trick recipients into handing over sensitive personal information.

In some cases, people have unknowingly handed over myGov logins, allowing criminals to redirect tax refunds or benefit payments into other accounts.

The Sneaky Tactics

These tax scams often come in the form of:

• Text messages with suspicious links

• Emails warning of problems with your return

• Fake prompts to “verify your identity” or “update details”

Once you click through, you may be taken to a website that looks almost identical to the real myGov portal—but it’s a trap.

Centrelink’s Advice

Services Australia is urging people to stay alert and take the following precautions:

• Never click on links in unexpected messages. Instead, go directly to my.gov.au.

• Use multi-factor authentication to secure your account.

• Don’t share your myGov password with anyone—even if they claim to be from a government department.

• Regularly check your account activity to spot any suspicious changes.

• Report scams to Scamwatch or through the myGov help channels.

Why it Matters

Tax time is always a hotspot for scammers, and this year is no different. With thousands of people lodging their returns and checking for refunds, it’s the perfect time for cybercriminals to strike.

So if a message feels rushed, threatening, or asks for personal details—pause. Think. Check.

Bottom line? If it smells phishy, don’t bite. Head to myGov the safe way and keep your money where it belongs.