Tax Time Scams
CoggerGurry • September 3, 2024
An ever-increasing number of email and SMS scams are doing the rounds in 2024, but perhaps most troubling is the fact that they are becoming increasingly believable.
In our industry they are typically sent from scammers purporting to be the ATO and seeking additional information to you as a taxpayer.
Key things to remember if you are confronted with a suspicious email or SMS.
- Look out for messages containing a link that asks you to log in to a government service such as myGov. The ATO has recently removed all hyperlinks in unsolicited, outbound SMS, so if you’ve received a message that appears to be from the ATO but contains a link, it’s a scam.
- You should always access ATO services by visiting ato.gov.au or my.gov.au, or via the ATO app.
- Be careful of emails requesting personal or financial information, especially if they claim to be urgent or time sensitive. The ATO will never ask for passwords, account numbers, or other sensitive data via email, SMS or unsolicited phone calls.
- Be wary of downloading attachments or opening email links. They can infect your computer with malware, leading to information being stolen.
In summary, if in doubt call CoggerGurry on 03 5571 0111, as your tax agent we can confirm any correspondence from the ATO or provide advice if you think you’ve had your security breached.
If you've driven past our office recently, you may have noticed some changes underway! We're excited to share that installation of our new Brentnalls Western Victoria signage has commenced. Like many outdoor projects, the recent weather has caused a few delays, but we're looking forward to seeing the finished result once the weather improves! The rebrand represents an exciting new chapter for our firm, while maintaining the same trusted team, local knowledge and commitment to supporting our clients. We think it will be well worth the wait!
Team Fundraiser for The Shaka Project Recently, our team came together for a fundraising morning tea in support of The Shaka Project , an organisation dedicated to promoting positive mental health, wellbeing and meaningful conversations within our communities. It was wonderful to see staff get behind the cause, enjoy some great food, and contribute to an important initiative that aligns closely with our commitment to supporting wellbeing both in and outside the workplace. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped make the morning a success. For more information on The Shaka Project head to their website here 
Over the past few months we've celebrated a number of team birthdays at Brentnalls Western Victoria. A belated happy birthday to Andrew, Chris, Bec, Chloe, Toni, Sam and Michael ("Pechy") ! We hope you each enjoyed celebrating your special day with family and friends. Thank you for everything you do for our clients, our team and our communities. We wish you all the very best for the year ahead.
