IRS Refund Message Is a Scam
We’re a few weeks into tax season, which means identity thieves are once again going out of their way to trick you into believing they’re the IRS.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is warning consumers about the latest tax scam in which people posing as the IRS send victims emails and text messages with a link to check or request a tax refund. According to the notice, the scam encourages recipients to obtain an “electronic tax refund” or “fill out a form to receive a refund.” The message appears legitimate, complete with an IRS logo and details about the estimated refund amount and “next steps.”
However, this is a phishing scam, and clicking on any link may result in malware being installed on your device or your personal information being compromised. This is your annual reminder that the IRS does not communicate with consumers via email or text message (or social media), and you should never click on links in any communications that purport to be from the agency.
Instead, most communication with the IRS is initiated through mailed notices delivered by the USPS, and if you’ve experienced the rare phone call or in-person visit from an IRS representative, you’ve already received plenty of letters via regular mail. IRS employees conducting tax audits or collections will carry two specific pieces of identification .
What to do if you receive a fraudulent message from the IRS
Again, don’t click on links in text messages or emails that claim to be from the IRS, even if they look legitimate or are about refunds. If so, we have a guide to combating the consequences of phishing, including steps you can take immediately to protect your information and accounts.
Then report the impersonation to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration on the IRS website or by calling 800-366-4484, and to the FTC . You can also report unwanted emails directly to [email protected] .
Finally, you can check the validity of your tax refund (after filing your return) using the IRS Where’s My Refund tool .