Warning: be wary of ATO computer scams

A BALLARAT accounting firm has warned locals to be wary of emails claiming to be from the Australian Taxation Office, asking for personal details.Jim Hall, from Hallmark Accounting, said two of the firm’s clients had contacted the office on Thursday, complaining about separate scams.One of the emails, seen by The Courier, displays official Australian Taxation Office logos and asks recipients to click on a link to view recommendations to fix a “mistake” in their tax returns.“We regret to inform you that you have made mistakes while completing the last tax return,” the email says.“Please correct the mistakes and send the revised tax return to your tax agent as soon as possible.”Mr Hall said the other email claimed the recipient was entitled to a $200 refund, which would be forwarded to them if they handed over personal banking details.Ballarat police proactive unit Senior Constable Janine Walker said scams were a constant threat to the community.“We need to get the message out about scams as much as we can,” she said.“Banks, the ATO and big corporate companies won’t email you or call you cold – they will always write a letter.”Senior Constable Walker said it was important for people suspecting a scam to warn others of the potential danger.“These people spend all day every day trying to scam others,” she said.“We’ve even had calls at our office – they’re preying on everyone.”Senior Constable Walker said emails from scam artists often looked legitimate, but anything which raises suspicion should not be opened and should be deleted.“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” she said.“It’s not just emails – it’s phone calls, text messages and door-knockers.”Anyone experiencing or suspecting a scam can report it to Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 558 181 or visit www.consumer.vic.gov.au.