Those waiting for tax refunds can expect e-mail phishing scams that seek personal and financial information.
Example: An “IRS” e-mail notifies you of an available refund or about issues concerning the refund. You are told to click on a hyperlink that connects you to an official-looking Web site that requests Social Security Numbers, credit card numbers, etc. The scammers use these to apply for loans in your name or to commit other financial fraud.
Variation: The e-mail states that the taxpayer is under audit but the issues can be resolved by clicking on the Web site and providing the same information.
Solution: The IRS does not use e-mail to initiate contact about issues related to tax accounts. When in doubt about an “IRS” contact, call 1-800-829-1040 to confirm.
Alternative: Go to www.irs.gov instead of clicking on the link in the e-mail.
Do not use this article as a substitute for professional advice.
The information in this article is intended to be only a general overview of the topic and may omit details that could be critical to your specific situation. Accordingly, this article should not be construed as rendering legal, tax, or other professional services. Please contact our office for more information on this topic and how it could affect your specific tax or financial situation.