Watch out for tax scams

Large numbers of scammers have been trying to trick people with fake tax debt scams recently.

These scammers will tell you that you have a tax debt and if you don’t pay it straight away, you’ll be arrested.

If you receive a phone call or message like this, don’t respond.

The ATO will never:

• threaten you with immediate arrest, jail or deportation
• request payment of a debt via iTunes, Google Play gift cards or other vouchers
• insist you stay on the phone until you pay
• prevent you from discussing your tax affairs with your agent or adviser.

If you’re ever unsure if a contact is really from the ATO, hang up and call the ATO on 1800 008 540 to check.