Tax season can be stressful, and scammers often take advantage of this time to target individuals. Staying informed and vigilant against evolving fraud tactics is essential to recognizing common schemes and protecting yourself.

1. Phishing Emails and Texts

Scammers send fake emails or texts pretending to be from the IRS or other trusted sources. These messages often include urgent requests to verify personal information or settle a tax debt, with links or attachments designed to steal your data.

Tip: The IRS never contacts people by email or text. Don’t click on links or share personal details in unsolicited messages.

2. Phone Scams

Fraudsters impersonate IRS agents, making threatening calls and demanding immediate payment to avoid arrest or legal trouble. They may ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency

Tip: The IRS doesn’t demand payments over the phone or threaten taxpayers with police action.

3. Identity Theft

Scammers use stolen personal details to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds. Victims often discover the fraud when their legitimate tax return is rejected.

Tip: Protect your Social Security number and consider filing your taxes early to beat fraudsters to the punch.

4. Fake Tax Assistance

Dishonest tax preparers promise big refunds but may alter your tax return without your knowledge, leading to audits or penalties.

Tip: Check your preparer’s credentials using the IRS directory of authorized tax professionals.

5. Social Media Scams

Scammers use social media to spread false information about tax credits or refunds, or they may impersonate the IRS to steal personal details.

Tip: Trust only official IRS resources for tax-related information and report suspicious activity.

6. Charity Fraud

Scammers pose as legitimate charities during crises or disasters, soliciting fake donations they claim are tax-deductible.

Tip: Verify charities through tools like the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search.

7. Evolving Cryptocurrency Scams

With the rise of cryptocurrency, scammers use it for fraud, including fake tax payment requests or investment opportunities.

Tip: The IRS does not accept cryptocurrency for tax payments. Be wary of unsolicited investment offers.

8. Tax Refund Fraud

Scammers use stolen information to file fake tax returns and divert refunds to their accounts. Some send fake checks, later demanding repayment.

Tip: Use the official IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track your refund safely.

In summary, remember these steps to protect your privacy during tax season.

  • Be Skeptical: Question unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming to be from the IRS. The IRS typically contacts taxpayers through mail. Suspicious calls or emails? Report them.
  • Verify Contacts: Use official IRS contact numbers to confirm any communication.
  • Secure Your Information: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor your Metro accounts regularly. Protect your Social Security number and file taxes early to reduce the chance of identity theft.
  • Report Scams: Notify the IRS of any suspicious activity via their fraud reporting page.

 

 

Quick Checklist: If You Think It’s a Tax Scam

  • Do not click links or open attachments in unexpected emails or texts.
  • Do not share personal info like your Social Security number, bank details, or online banking credentials.
  • Do not send payment by gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or “urgent” payment apps.
  • Pause and verify using official contact information (do not use phone numbers or links from the message).
  • If you already clicked or shared information, change your passwords right away and enable two-factor authentication where available.
  • Monitor your accounts for unusual activity and set up alerts if you have them.

What to Do If You Already Paid or Shared Information

  • If you paid with a gift card or wire transfer, contact the payment provider immediately. Time matters.
  • If you shared sensitive personal information, place fraud alerts or consider a credit freeze and monitor your credit report.
  • If you believe a fraudulent tax return was filed using your information, file your legitimate return as directed by your tax professional and follow the IRS identity theft steps.

Tax Scam FAQ

Does the IRS ever contact people by email or text?

No. The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages, or social media to request personal or financial information.

Will the IRS threaten arrest or demand immediate payment over the phone?

No. Threats of arrest, police involvement, or immediate payment demands are classic scam signs.

Can I pay the IRS with cryptocurrency?

Be cautious of anyone requesting crypto for “tax payments.” Treat that as a red flag.

How can I safely check on my refund?

Use the official IRS refund tracking tool rather than links sent to you in messages.