25/06/2024
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The ATO has seen an increase in scams targeting individualsโ personally identifiable information (PII).
In 2022, a personโs birthdate was the most common piece of PII divulged to scammers. Nowadays, scammers are getting their hands on far more valuable information.
Last year, the ATO saw an increase in reports of scams targeting peopleโs PII, including myGov sign-in credentials โ the doorway to their ATO accounts and financial information.
PII forms pieces of a scammerโs puzzle that, when completed, gives them a detailed picture of a personโs identity. Scammers can then use this information to steal the personโs identity and commit crimes in their name, such as tax fraud.
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Bookkeepers play a crucial role in helping clients safeguard their PII. They educate clients on the importance of protecting personal details, and encourage verification of requests for such information. Bookkeepers protect client data by implementing secure practices like encrypted storage and access controls.
Staying informed about security threats enables bookkeepers to provide timely updates and guidance. By promoting best practices and prompt reporting of suspicious activity, bookkeepers help maintain client identity integrity and build trust through proactive management of personal information.
It is important for your bookkeeper to have a conversation with you about protecting your PII โ especially your myGov credentials.
