Will the ATO ever send me a link in a text message?

No. The ATO and MyGov have stopped sending links in text messages. Legitimate messages will tell you to log into your account independently.

I clicked an ATO scam link, what should I do?

If you entered your MyGov details or TFN, contact the ATO immediately to secure your account. Change your MyGov password and enable two-factor authentication.

How can I check my real tax debt or refund status?

Go directly to my.gov.au on your browser, log in, and check your ATO linked service. Do not use links provided in emails or texts.

ATO Scam Checker

ATO scam checker for fake debt notices and refund texts.

Got an alert about an unpaid tax debt, an unexpected refund, or a suspended Tax File Number (TFN)? Stop. The ATO will never SMS asking you to click a link to log in or pay a debt.

Security Insight

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is one of the most impersonated government agencies, especially from July to October. Scammers use SMS and email to steal your TFN and MyGov login details.

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Detecting fake ATO alerts

The ATO communicates differently from scammers. Watch out for these aggressive fear and reward tactics designed to steal your identity.

Claims your TFN has been suspended

A Tax File Number (TFN) Cannot be 'suspended' or 'cancelled' due to fraud. This is a common scare tactic.

Demands immediate debt payment via unusual methods

Scammers threaten arrest or legal action if you don't pay immediately, sometimes requesting gift cards, crypto, or direct wire transfers.

Sends unexpected refund notifications with a link

Scammers send 'You are owed a refund' messages containing a link to a fake MyGov login page to steal your details.

Threatens police or legal action over the phone

Pre-recorded voicemails or aggressive phone calls threatening arrest for an unpaid tax debt are always scams.

What IsThisSpam checks before you trust a sender

Quick verdicts are useful, but the real value is understanding why something looks safe, uncertain, or risky.

Links via SMS

The ATO has removed hyperlinks from outbound SMS. If you get an SMS with a link claiming to be the ATO, it's a scam.

High-pressure urgency

Scam messages force immediate action—'Pay within 24 hours or face arrest'.

Requests for upfront fees

You never have to pay a fee to receive a legitimate tax refund.

Spoofed Sender IDs

Scammers can make their SMS appear in the same thread as legitimate ATO messages.

Related guides

Use the checker for the fast answer, then read the deeper guidance for recurring scam patterns.

MyGov Scam Checker

MyGov is frequently impersonated alongside the ATO. Learn how to spot fake MyGov emails.

Read the guide

Most Common Scams People Fall For

Understand broader scam playbooks including support, delivery, and impersonation campaigns.

Read the guide

FAQ

These are the questions people usually ask right before they click, reply, or pay.

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Start with a fast scan, then move to SuperScan when the message involves money, account access, or sensitive documents.

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