The ATO has introduced an extra step to verify superannuation transfer requests in its online services, of which SMSFs and anyone working with them need to be aware.
In updates on its website directed to fund members and professionals with SMSF clients, the regulator announced from May if people have registered their device using the ATO app and request to transfer or consolidate their super in ATO online services, they will need to verify that request in the facility before it is submitted.
“This extra step is the latest ATO app security feature that helps to protect you from fraudulent activity and give you more control over important super transactions,” the regulator explained in its update to SMSF members.
It added if SMSF members were planning to transfer superannuation and have completed the required registration, they need to make sure they can access the ATO app on their device. To verify a request, they can follow the prompts in ATO online services as well as the electronic application.
“If you receive an ATO app message about a transfer request you did not make, do not verify it. Lock your account using the ATO app immediately to protect against further unauthorised transactions,” it stated.
The regulator has been working on protecting people from scammers with regular updates to its app.
In April, it added a feature that identifies whether calls are from the regulator or a scammer. If someone receives a call from someone who says they are from the ATO, they can log in to the app and select the verify the call option.
Late last year, the ATO said enhancing counter-fraud measures was one of its five priority areas for 2025/26 and that included deploying more advanced controls for real-time monitoring capabilities and enhancing its app.
