Like clockwork, the scammers are back – this time targeting small business including Australian pet businesses – timed during the “Christmas rush” when there is an increased vulnerability. Here’s how NOT to get caught!

More than 81,000 businesses have reported being targeted, and it’s a real issue for small businesses where relatively untrained employees (store managers, receptionists etc) may not be wary enough to avoid problems READ ABOUT THE SCAM HERE.

Here’s how to avoid the scammers:

1. Tell your staff that any “official” phone call MUST be transferred to you. Tell them to take the phone number and name of the person and pass the call to you for a response. DO NOT let staff provide any key information – bank account details, the name of the boss/owner etc.
2. CALL the ATO consumer line to check if a call is real
3. BE SUSPICIOUS if they say there is no other way to contact them.
4. BE SUSPICIOUS if they talk about “warrants” – the ATO does not issue warrants over the phone.
5. TRAIN your staff on scams – you may save them from being scammed personally as well.