Fraud Alert: Understanding IRS Scams

Understanding IRS Scams: What They Are and Why They’re Growing

IRS scams continue to rise, especially during tax season, when criminals try to exploit confusion and urgency. These scams often mimic official IRS communication to steal money, personal data, or both. The IRS warns that scams can happen year‑round, not just when taxes are due.

Common Tactics Scammers Use

Scammers rely on pressure, fear, and impersonation. A message or call is likely fraudulent if it:

• Arrives unexpectedly
• Uses threats or urgency
• Promises unusually large refunds or credits
• Asks for personal or financial information
• Demands immediate payment “or else”

These tactics appear across phone calls, emails, texts, social media messages, and even fake websites.

The IRS “Dirty Dozen”: Scams to Watch Closely

Each year, the IRS releases its “Dirty Dozen” list of the most dangerous and widespread tax scams. The 2025 list highlights threats ranging from phishing emails to misleading tax credit schemes. These scams peak during filing season but can occur anytime.

Key categories include:

• Phishing and Smishing Fraudulent emails or texts pretending to be from the IRS or tax software companies. They often link to fake websites designed to steal login credentials or personal data.
• Social Media Tax Advice Scams Bad advice spreads quickly online, leading taxpayers to file incorrect returns or claim credits they don’t qualify for.
• Fake Refund or Credit Offers Scammers promise inflated refunds or special credits to lure victims into sharing sensitive information.
• Identity Theft Schemes Criminals file returns using stolen identities to claim fraudulent refunds.
• Gift Card and Payment Scams Scammers demand payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers—methods the IRS never uses.

How to Tell If It’s Really the IRS

The IRS rarely contacts taxpayers through digital channels. According to the agency:

• The IRS does not initiate contact via email, text, or social media about bills or refunds.
• Most legitimate IRS communication begins with a letter sent through the U.S. Postal Service.

If someone calls claiming to be from the IRS and demands immediate payment, it’s almost certainly a scam.

What To Do If You Suspect a Scam

Taking quick action can protect your identity and finances.

• Do not respond to suspicious messages or click any links.
• Verify independently by contacting the IRS directly through official channels.
• Report the scam to the IRS so they can track and investigate it.
• Take steps to protect your identity if you believe your information was stolen.

Protecting Yourself Year‑Round

Scammers don’t wait for tax season. Staying vigilant throughout the year helps reduce risk.

• Use strong, unique passwords for tax-related accounts.
• Enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
• Keep tax documents secure and shred sensitive papers.
• Be skeptical of unsolicited messages promising refunds or threatening penalties.

Helpful Resources:
Tax scams | Internal Revenue Service

Report fraud | Internal Revenue Service

IR-2025-26: Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2025: IRS warns taxpayers to watch out for dangerous threats