Tax scams can take many forms, with perpetrators posing as the IRS in everything from e-mail refund schemes to phone impersonators. Be vigilant of any unexpected communication that is purportedly from the IRS or another government agency. Don't ever give personal information over the phone, through the mail or on the Internet unless you have initiated the contact and are sure of the recipient. The IRS also does not ask for PINs, passwords or similar confidential access information for credit card, bank or other financial accounts, over the phone.
The articles in our next few posts are examples of some of the most recent scams. Be aware that combating identity theft is an ongoing battle as identity thieves continue to create new ways of stealing your personal information and using it for their gain.
The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email or phone to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels. The IRS initiates contact only with a formal letter.
If you receive any correspondence from the IRS, please contact us and then get the information to us right away as there is usually a short window to reply. Sometimes it is only a request for additional information and can be resolved quickly.