Tax season officially begins on January 29, and internet scammers will capitalize on the moment. The Internal Revenue Service initiates most contact through regular mail delivered by the United States Postal Service. Sometimes, they will call or visit, but other than that, “The IRS doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information.” For example, if you receive an email that claims to be from the IRS, then you should be suspicious.
Collection Scams
If you receive a call or letter asking for money, here are some tips from the IRS on how to recognize a collection scam.
- Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method, such as a prepaid debit card, gift card, or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail you a bill if you owe any taxes.
- Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.
- Threats are common tactics in a scam. In fact, “The IRS also cannot revoke your driver’s license, business licenses, or immigration status.”
- Demand that you pay taxes without the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
- Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
Refund Scams
Some tax scammers mislead victims into believing they are owed a refund. Instead of money, these scammers are after your personal or financial information. They might ask for Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, or anything else they need to steal your money or identity. Do not interact with these messages. Instead, check if you have a pending refund using the Where’s My Refund? tool on IRS.gov.
As you prepare for the tax filing deadline, please remain vigilant against attackers who impersonate the IRS during tax season. If you believe you are the victim of a tax scam, the IRS has a reporting guide at Tax Scams – How to Report Them.