The IRS is warning taxpayers to be on the lookout for a surge of tax scams, as identity thieves send emails/texts promising tax refunds, credits, or offers to help “fix” tax problems. The aim is to try to get you to click a link to a phishing website where they can steal sensitive information, or load malware/ransomware on your computer.
Please note that the IRS will NEVER initiate contact with a taxpayer by text or email; they ALWAYS communicate in a paper letter mailed to the address on your tax returns.
The IRS also warns taxpayers to be wary of messages that appear to be from friends or family but that are possibly stolen or compromised email or text accounts from someone they know. This remains a popular way to target individuals and tax preparers for a variety of scams. Individuals should verify the identity of the sender by using another communication method; for instance, calling a number they independently know to be accurate, not the number provided in the email or text.
Think twice before clicking on any link! If in doubt about any link that involves your taxes, feel free to call us and ask first. We are here to help.