Tax Season Scam Alert: Protect Yourself from IRS Impersonation Fraud

As the April tax deadline approaches, scammers are ramping up their efforts to deceive taxpayers. A recent report by F-Secure warns that fraudsters are impersonating the IRS through emails, text messages, and even phone calls, using AI-enhanced tactics to make their schemes more convincing.

 

How Scammers Operate

🔹 Fake IRS Messages: Fraudsters send phishing emails or texts that appear official, often including your real name and address.
🔹 Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers make it seem like the IRS is calling from an official number.
🔹 AI & Deepfake Technology: Some scams now use AI-generated voices to impersonate IRS agents.
🔹 Fear Tactics: Messages often threaten legal action or fines, pressuring victims into providing personal information or making immediate payments.

 

How to Stay Safe

✅ Know the IRS Contact Rules: The IRS does not initiate contact via email, text, or phone calls. Official notices come through the mail.
✅ Don’t Share Personal Information: Never provide your Social Security number, bank details, or credit card info over the phone or online.
✅ Verify Before Acting: If you receive a suspicious message, visit IRS.gov to verify official communications.
✅ Report Scams: Forward phishing attempts to phishing@irs.gov and report fraudulent calls to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).

 

As scammers become more sophisticated, staying informed is your best defense. If you have any concerns, reach out to us. Stay vigilant and protect your financial information this tax season!

🔗 Source: F-Secure Report

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Under U.S. Treasury regulations, any tax advice in this communication is not intended or written to be used to avoid IRS penalties. Tzinberg & Associates provides this information for general guidance only. It does not constitute tax advice, accounting services, investment advice, or professional consulting. Consult a professional adviser before making decisions or taking action, as the information is provided "as is" without any warranties regarding its completeness, accuracy, or timeliness.