Media releases
Tax time trap for first-time workers: Young Aussies face heightened scam risk this July
23 June 2026
With more than a quarter of a million Australians set to lodge their first tax return from next month, Westpac is warning young workers to be on alert for impersonation scams.
This comes as new Westpac data shows impersonation scams increased by 17% in July last year from the month prior, with these particular scams one of the most frequently reported scam types by customers.
Westpac Head of Fraud Prevention, Ben Young said there’s a new cohort of workers that may become an easy target.
“Scammers seize any opportunity to make hard-working Australians part way with their money and tax time is a prime opportunity as people are eager to hear about potential tax refunds,” Young said.
“There’s essentially a ‘class of 2026’ of young workers who have never received a legitimate myGov notification or ATO Notice of Assessment before. That lack of familiarity can make it harder to distinguish between a real message and a scam, particularly when people expect to receive messages about refunds or payments.
“These scam attempts can reach people via SMS and email, where messages can mimic official branding and language that seems genuine at first glance. It’s really important to pause and check before engaging with a message, unknown caller or request for details – even if it appears to come from a legitimate organisation,” Young said.
Top tips for people to protect themselves from tax time scams
- Stop and think before you click. Unexpected emails or texts about refunds or tax debts should raise alarm bells. Don’t click links or download attachments, go directly to official websites instead. This includes messages promising unexpected refunds or asking you to “confirm” details to receive money.
- Don’t share personal or financial information. Never provide your Tax File Number, banking details or login credentials to unsolicited contacts. The ATO will not ask for this information through unsolicited contact.
- Use official channels to stay informed. Make sure your contact details are up to date and turn on notifications in your myGov or ATO app to receive legitimate updates and alerts about your account.
- Act quickly if something feels wrong. If you notice unusual transactions or think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank immediately.
Media contact: