Tax season is upon us, which presents a new – and seasonal – opportunity for Cybercriminals to try and scam consumers to access personal information. It’s crucial to be extra vigilant, stay informed, and be cautious. If you get an email, text, letter, or call claiming to be the IRS, it may be a scam. Know what to look out for and protect yourself.
Here are five common scams to watch out for, during tax season, and always:
1. Phishing Emails
Cybercriminals often send emails that appear to be from the IRS or other tax authorities, urging recipients to click on links or download attachments. These emails may request personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, or tax return data. Always verify the sender's email address and never click on suspicious links or attachments.
2. Phone Scams
Scammers may call pretending to be IRS agents, threatening legal action or arrest if immediate payment is not made. Remember, the IRS will never demand payment over the phone or threaten individuals with arrest. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and report it to the IRS.
3. Text Scams
Fraudsters may try to reach consumers via text messaging, sending alarming information and luring you to believe you’ve been impacted by a legitimate account hold or unusual activity. As in the previous cases, do not click on the links and report it to the IRS.
4. Fake Tax Preparers
Be careful who you trust with this highly sensitive information. Some scammers pose as legitimate tax professionals to steal personal and financial information. Ensure that your tax preparer has a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), verify their credentials, and check their reviews. Similarly, when utilizing an online service, always go straight to the website instead of clicking links sent to you.
5. Fake Tax Refunds
Scammers may file false tax returns using stolen personal information and then claim fraudulent refunds. Monitor your tax accounts closely and report any suspicious activity to the IRS immediately.
If you suspect fraudulent activity related to your taxes, report it by sending the email or a copy of the text to phishing@irs.gov.
Tips to Protect Yourself
- Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible.
- Regularly update your software and security systems.
- Educate yourself about the latest scams and how to avoid them.
- Visit the IRS website to learn more and stay aware of current threats.
- Find out how the IRS will contact you and for what purposes.
KEMBA Financial Credit Union Can Help
KEMBA is committed to helping you protect your financial well-being. For further information on tax scams, visit irs.gov or visit KEMBA’s Cybersecurity Center for tips and resources.