February 18, 2025
This tax season, protect yourself against scams that threaten your financial security. Unfortunately, this time of year is prime for fraudsters looking to exploit taxpayers. Here are some key scams to watch out for:
1. IRS Impersonation Scams
One of the most common tactics scammers use is impersonating the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). They may call you, claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service, and insist you owe back taxes. These scams often involve threats of arrest or legal action if you don’t pay immediately. Remember, the IRS will never demand payment over the phone or email. Always verify the legitimacy of the communication and never provide personal information over the phone.
2. Phishing Emails and Texts
Another alarming trend is phishing emails and texts that appear to be from the IRS or tax preparation companies. These scams often include links that direct you to fake websites designed to steal sensitive information, such as your Social Security Number, home address, or banking information. Be cautious of unsolicited communications, especially those that urge you to click on links or provide personal information. Always navigate to official websites by typing the URL directly into your browser.
Protect Yourself
The best defense against these scams is awareness. Always verify the source of any communication that asks for personal information. The IRS offers resources to report suspicious activity and to help you find legitimate channels for tax-related queries. If you have encountered an IRS imposter, report it to tigta.gov.
