ATO launches new app feature to stop scam calls and improve scam protection.
With tax scams becoming more sophisticated across Australia, protecting your personal and financial information has never been more important. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has introduced a powerful new security feature through its mobile app called Verify Call, giving taxpayers a fast and simple way to confirm whether a call claiming to be from the ATO is genuine.
This is an important new tool to help safeguard your tax records, superannuation details and personal data.
What Is the ATO Verify Call Feature?
The new Verify Call feature in the official ATO app allows individuals and sole traders to check, in real time, whether they are speaking to an actual ATO representative or a scammer.
If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be the ATO:
- ·Open the ATO app
- ·Log in securely
- ·Select “Verify Call”
- ·Follow the prompts
If the call is legitimate, the app will confirm it. If not, it could be a scam, and you should end the call immediately. This added layer of protection is especially valuable as impersonation scams continue to rise. The ATO reported thousands of scam reports in recent years, particularly during tax time.
Why This Matters for Australian Taxpayers
Scammers often impersonate the ATO through phone calls, emails or SMS messages to steal sensitive information such as:
- ·Tax File Numbers (TFNs)
- ·myGov login credentials
- ·Bank account details
- ·Superannuation information
The Verify Call feature helps reduce the risk of fraud while increasing trust in legitimate communications from the ATO.
Other Key Security Features in the ATO App
Beyond Verify Call, the ATO app also provides several practical tools for managing tax and super securely:
Key Benefits Include:
- ·Access to tax and super information on the go
- ·Real-time security alerts
- ·Ability to lock your ATO account if suspicious activity occurs
- ·myDeductions tracking
- ·Tax withheld calculator
- ·ABN lookup
- ·Registered tax agent details
These features can help individuals, business owners and sole traders better manage their finances while staying protected from identity theft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ATO app free?
Yes. The official ATO app is free to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Can the ATO app really verify scam calls?
Yes. The Verify Call feature confirms whether a call is genuinely from the ATO in real time.
What should I do if I suspect a scam?
Hang up immediately, avoid sharing personal information, and report suspicious activity directly to the ATO.
Protect Your Tax and Financial Information Today
The ATO’s Verify Call feature is another important step toward reducing fraud and improving taxpayer security in Australia.
Need help with accounting, tax or financial guidance?
At Cashflow Financial we support clients across the Sutherland Shire, Wollongong and Greater Sydney with expert accounting, tax and financial guidance.