ACTING Tax Commissioner David Butler has warned communities in north-west Melbourne of a scam targeting unemployed locals and encouraged victims to make contact with the ATO.
Victims report that they have been offered assistance to claim a $3000 cash bonus from the government for being unemployed, if they made a $1000 payment and provided their personal details to the scammers.
“Our investigations reveal that scammers are using victims’ personal details in order to illegally claim the Education Tax Refund (ETR) from the ATO,” Mr David Butler said.
“This is illegal and any money issued will have to be paid back.
“Victims only become aware that anything illegal has occurred once they are audited by the ATO and asked to provide supporting documentation.
“Remember, the ATO will never ask you to pay money to receive a special government payment.
“If you have been approached or involved in some way you should contact the ATO immediately by phoning 13 28 61 so that we can assist you.
“Alternatively, people who have difficulty with English can contact the ATO’s Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50.”
