IRS warns of scams as tax filing season draws near
It’s time of year again – tax season. While you are finding your year’s worth of financial documents, scammers are eagerly awaiting the chance to steal your data and commit tax fraud.
Criminals use a plethora of ways to trick you and steal your data. According to the IRS, new client scams typically begin in January and end in April. Scammers count on you to let your guard down to obtain your data. Fortunately, you can follow these tips to protect yourself and your tax refund this year.
Phishing scams have grown in popularity amongst hackers. The goal is to convince you the message you have received is authentic and secure, where you then click on a link included in the email. Once clicked, the link will take you to a fake IRS site and record any information you provide using various forms of spyware.
Tip: Remember, the IRS will never contact you through text or email. The IRS will only contact you via mail.
Charity scams aren’t excluded from the growing list of ways scammers can take advantage of you. Scammers will go so far as to use your good nature against you. Because charitable donations are often used as a tax deduction, cyber criminals will often create fake charities for you to donate to.
Tip: Do your research and verify the organization is credible before donating to a charity on the spot.
Check out the articles below to learn more.
IRS, Security Summit partners warn of surge in “new client” scams aimed at tax pros as 2024 filing season approaches.
Protect yourself from tax scams.
https://www.healthcare.gov/how-can-i-protect-myself-from-tax-scams/
Let’s be careful out there!
–The PJ Networks Team
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