The ATO cautioned all Australians to be aware of ATO impersonation scams related to the name change of myGovID to myID.

Previously, the Tax Office announced myGovID would transition to be known as myID, effective from 13 November.

The change would include a new name and look; however, the app would still be able to be used in the same way and would require no action from users.

“The change from myGovID to myID aims to reduce the confusion between the myGovID app and myGov,” the ATO said.

“The new name for the Australian government’s digital ID app reflects the community’s understanding of Digital ID and demonstrates how a whole-of-government ID provider can help protect Australians from identity theft and fraud.”

According to the ATO, an influx of scams had been experienced based on the name change. With the name transition, there would be no need to set up a new myID or reconfirm details.

If asked to do this via text message, email, or visiting a website, it was a scam, the Tax Office said.

Official ATO communications about the name change and transition were shared with taxpayers and current myGovID users through email and other activities.

The ATO said scammers were trying to trick the community into thinking they needed to reconfirm their details via a link.

“The link directs users to a fraudulent myGov sign-in page designed to steal personal information, including myGov sign-in credentials,” the ATO said.

“These details can be used later in identity theft or other fraudulent activity such as refund fraud.”

The ATO provided reminders and tips for app users to help protect themselves against potential scammers. These included:

• The ATO won’t send an SMS, QR code, or email with a link to log on to online services as they should be directly accessed by typing ato.gov.au into a browser.
• The ATO would never send an “unsolicited message” asking to return personal identification information through SMS or email.
• Users should not click on links, open attachments, or download any files from suspicious emails or text messages, as ATO communications would never include a hyperlink.
• The myGovID/myID app should only be downloaded from the official app stores, Google Play, and App Store.
• Be mindful and remember to never share a login code or details with another individual or entity.

The Tax Office said communications and notices could also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

“We are on these platforms, but we will never use these social media platforms to private message, discuss your personal information, documentation, or ask you to make payments,” it said.

“If you’re unsure whether it’s really the ATO, don’t reply. Phone us on 1800 008 540 to report any suspicious contact claiming to be from the ATO to ReportScams@ato.gov.au.”