SCAM GUIDE
Is the ATO really contacting me about a tax debt?
Messages that threaten arrest or legal action over a tax debt, or demand payment by gift card, cryptocurrency or a link, are signs of a scam. Check your tax account by signing in to myGov yourself, or contact the ATO using details from ato.gov.au.
Already paid or shared your tax details? Go to the response steps →Last reviewed · General information, not legal or financial advice. How we write these guides
What it looks like
“You have an outstanding tax debt. Pay today to avoid legal action.”Example wording
Warning signs
- Threats of arrest, legal action or a cancelled tax file number
- Payment by gift card, cryptocurrency or another unusual method
- A link to sign in or pay
- Pressure to act today
Immediate steps and recovery
- Don’t reply, call back or pay.
- Sign in to myGov yourself — not through the link — to check for a real debt.
Already paid or shared your tax details?
If you paid or shared your tax file number, contact the ATO and IDCARE. Official ATO: verify or report an ATO scam.- Report it to Scamwatch.
Where to report it
Use the independent contacts and official reporting routes in the help panel.
Already lost money or details? Read what to do if you’ve been scammed.
ATO impersonation scams: common questions
Will the ATO threaten to arrest me?
Threats of immediate arrest are a common sign of an ATO impersonation scam. Check any real debt by signing in to myGov or contacting the ATO directly.
Can I pay a tax debt with gift cards?
A request to pay a government debt with gift cards or cryptocurrency is a strong sign of a scam.
