How to Spot Tax Season Scams

Tax season is upon us, and unfortunately, scammers are working harder than ever to gain access to your personal and financial information. Recently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued an announcement indicating that taxpayers who did not claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit would automatically receive payment of up to $1,400. As many taxpayers await these payments, scammers are taking advantage by sending fraudulent text messages that impersonate the IRS, attempting to steal personal and financial information to divert tax refunds.

To help you stay secure and avoid falling victim to these scams, we have outlined some common red flags to watch out for this tax season:

Too Good to Be True Offers: Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true. Scammers often promote misleading or fraudulent tax advice, encouraging you to falsify your tax forms or claim credits you are not entitled to.
Threats or Demands: Scammers may threaten arrest or deportation if you fail to pay immediately. They may also refuse to allow you to question or appeal the amount you owe.
Suspicious Website Links: Be wary of emails or texts containing misspelled or unfamiliar links. These could lead to malicious websites designed to steal your information.

As a reminder, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will never:

Request personal or financial information via text.
Contact you or request payment through social media.
Accept gift cards or prepaid debit cards as payment.
Threaten arrest or involvement of law enforcement or immigration officials.
Seize personal documents, such as your driver's license or business license
Demand immediate payment without allowing you the opportunity to dispute or appeal the amount owed.
Leave pre-recorded voicemails (robocalls).
Send unsolicited tax resolution advertisements by mail.

If you believe you have been targeted by a scam or have shared personal information with a fraudulent source, contact the bank immediately to secure your accounts. Stay vigilant this tax season and always verify any communication you receive from the IRS through trusted, official channels.