Hi everyone,
We always talk about staying on top of your tax obligations—but just as important is protecting yourself from scams pretending to be the ATO.
The good news? The ATO has just launched a call verification function in the ATO app, designed to give you peace of mind when you receive a phone call claiming to be from them.
And honestly, it’s a much-needed move.
So, What Does the ATO App Do?
In simple terms, the app allows you to confirm whether a call is genuinely from the ATO while you’re still on the phone.
Here’s how it works:
- If the ATO calls you, the app can send a secure notification to your device
- You can then verify the caller’s identity in real time
- No more guessing or worrying about being tricked into sharing sensitive info
What the app looks like in Google Play & Apple Store
Why This Matters (More Than Ever)
ATO impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated and more frequent.
We’re seeing:
- Fake calls demanding urgent payments
- Threats about fines or arrest
- Requests for personal or financial details
And unfortunately, these scams can be very convincing—especially when they use real ATO language.
That’s why this verification app is a big step forward—it adds an extra layer of protection you can rely on.
What You Should Still Watch Out For
Even with this new tool, it’s important to stay vigilant:
- The ATO will never pressure you for immediate payment
- They won’t ask for sensitive info via unsolicited calls
- Payment requests via gift cards or cryptocurrency are always scams
If something feels off—trust your instincts and pause before acting.
Our Advice for Clients
As your accountant, here’s our simple game plan for staying safe:
✔ Use the ATO call verification app where possible
✔ Don’t engage with unexpected or suspicious callers
✔ Contact us before taking action if you’re unsure
✔ Keep your contact details up to date with the ATO
We’d rather you double-check with us than risk falling victim to a scam.
Final Thought
Scammers are getting smarter—but so are the tools designed to stop them.
This new ATO initiative is a great step, but your best defence is still awareness and caution.
If you ever receive a call that doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.
Not sure if a call is legit?
Give us a quick call or email before taking action—we’re happy to help you verify anything ATO-related.
