Protecting your information

We all need to protect our information from identity thieves.

Identity thieves can use stolen identities and other personal information to:

• access your bank account and shop using your credit card
• access your myGov account
• steal your superannuation
• apply for a government benefit
• sell your house
• create fake businesses and commit refund fraud in your name
• take over your business and submit adjustments for BAS that you have lodged before
• sell your identity to organised crime groups on the dark web or via other means.

Thieves only need some basic details such as name, date of birth, address, myGov details, or tax file number (TFN) to commit identity crime.

If criminals steal your identity, it can take a long time to fix. It may be difficult for you to get a job, a loan, rent a house, or apply for government services or benefits.

If you suspect your TFN or ABN has been stolen, misused or compromised, call the ATO as soon as possible on 1800 467 033 between 8.00am and 6.00pm Monday–Friday so they can investigate and place additional protective measures on your account.

Watch Be aware of what you share video from the ATO to see how to identify an illegitimate request for information.

This information is provided to you by the ATO (10 May 2021)

If you have any queries please contact us.