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.