Beware of fake ABN, TFN websites
Scammers are especially active around tax time
12 May, 2022
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is urging taxpayers to be vigilant following an increase in reports of fake websites offering to provide tax file numbers (TFN) and Australian business numbers (ABN) for a fee. Instead of delivering this service, the scammer uses these fraudulent websites to steal both money and personal information.
The fake TFN and ABN services are often advertised on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Applying for a TFN through the ATO or an ABN through the Australian Business Register (ABR) is free.
NSW Small Business Commissioner Chris Lamont encouraged anyone who had been a victim of these scammers to contact the ATO or the NSW Small Business Commission, which can provide information to the ACCC's Scamwatch to warn other businesses.
Malicious attempts to steal identity details occur more frequently in the lead up to tax time. In 2021, more than 50,000 people reported ATO impersonation scams with victims losing a total of more than $800,000.
Scammers often portray themselves as the ATO, making threats, demanding the payment of fake tax debts or claiming a TFN has been ‘suspended’ due to fraud.
Those who apply for a TFN or ABN through a tax agent should always check that the tax agent is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board.
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