The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has recently rolled out a significant change to its online services. Businesses will now need to use the Australian Government’s Digital ID system to verify their identity when accessing certain ATO platforms.
According to 7news, this update will affect businesses utilizing key services such as the Relationship Authorisations Manager (RAM), Access Manager, and the Australian Business Register (ABR). The change aims to improve security and streamline access to ATO services.
Impact on Business Users
Starting from now, businesses will need to use the Digital ID system to access and interact with several key ATO online services. This change is designed to enhance the security of business transactions and interactions with ATO services.
The shift towards Digital ID means that businesses will need to set up their Digital ID before they can access the services. Users will need to verify their identity by providing documents issued by an approved provider. These documents will help create secure profiles for users acting on behalf of businesses.
Setting Up the Digital ID
To begin using the Digital ID system, users must first set up their profiles. This setup requires verification of their identity through documents from an authorized provider.
The myID system, provided by the Australian Government, is the only Digital ID currently available to access ATO services. Once users have their Digital ID verified, they will be able to log in to ATO platforms securely.
The ATO has emphasized that this system will be critical in maintaining the security of users’ interactions with their services and reducing the potential for fraudulent activities.
Login Process and Security Features
After users have set up their Digital ID, the login process for ATO services will involve two new screens. The first screen will prompt users to select their Digital ID provider, such as myID. The second screen will ask for consent to share their information with the ATO’s online services.
The next time you log in, you’ll be prompted with two new screens – the ATO said
This process may be familiar to users who have accessed other Australian Government services through myGov using their Digital ID.
Once the initial login is complete, users can opt to skip these steps in the future. However, the ATO advises against doing so if the device is shared, as it could compromise security.
Users who do not share their devices can choose the options “Remember my choice” and “Yes, remember my consent” for quicker login in the future.
Despite the option for faster login, the ATO has urged users to always log in directly through the official ATO and RAM websites for the most secure access to online services.
For secure access, always log in directly through ATO and RAM websites – ATO said,
Emphasising the importance of maintaining robust security practices.
The ATO has made resources available for users seeking assistance with accessing the new services. A dedicated help page, Accessing online services with Digital ID and RAM, provides step-by-step guidance for businesses that need support with setting up and using their Digital ID.
