Australians targeted by fake myGov email phishing scam

Australians are being warned of a new email scam in which hackers pose as myGov employees and then proceed to steal the bank details of unsuspecting victims.

The scam, which is conducted over email, impersonates an official communications message from myGov that asks a user to verify their identity and provide their financial details.

The email contains screenshots from the legitimate myGovID app, and pretend to direct users to a "secure form" to fill out their details.

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ATO Assistant Commissioner Ben Foster said this new phishing scam contains classic warning signs that it is not legitimate such as spelling errors.

"The ATO and myGov does send emails and SMS messages, however will never send you an email or SMS with a hyperlink directing you to a login page for our online services," Mr Foster said.

"In the lead up to tax time, we expect to see more of these malicious attempts to harvest identity details.

"So we encourage everyone to be on alert and take the time to remind family and friends to be on the lookout and stay safe online."

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Hank Jongen from Services Australia said people who have received the email should only act if they have provided secure details about themselves.

"If you've opened an email that looks suspicious, don't click any links, open any attachments or reply to it," Mr Jongen said.

"If you've received the suspicious email and provided your myGov sign in information you should take immediate action.

"Change your myGov password and if you've provided your banking details, contact your bank."

If users are still concerned they can contact Services Australia's Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk on 1800 941 126. The Helpdesk is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.