What is a Tax or IRS scam?

Tax scams can present themselves in different ways, such as phone calls displaying a legitimate tax number, text messages suggesting unclaimed funds, or emails appearing to be from tax authorities. They try to get your personal information or demand immediate payment, threatening legal consequences if you refuse. If you encounter such a scam, report it to the relevant agency and consider getting an identity protection PIN if you’ve shared sensitive information.

How can you stay safe?

To avoid tax scams, be careful with messages or calls asking for personal info or quick payments. Always remember that the IRS will not call and threaten you over the phone for immediate payments. If you get strange messages or calls, tell the tax office. And if you’re in the US and worried about ID theft, ask the IRS for a protection PIN..