Cases of IRS identity theft and tax debt scam calls are on the rise, with thousands of cases reported annually. IRS scams include criminals impersonating debt collectors, IRS officials, or other government workers in an effort to deceive you into paying money for missing taxes, fines, or fees. These frauds typically take place by text, phone, the internet, or the mail.
Here is a list of the latest IRS scams, along with tips on how to recognize them and where to file a fraud report. If you are finding ways to stay away from scammers, then consult a CPA in Hanover, MD
Some types of IRS scams
You can diminish the likelihood of becoming a target of an IRS scam and protect both your personal and financial data.
- Hacking emails
Email hacking represents a widespread method used by scammers to steal personal and financial data. These distorted emails often act as communications from respectable entities like the IRS and frequently include links or attachments that, if accessed, can install malware on your device. To ignore the risk of falling prey to such scams, refrain from clicking on links or downloading attachments in unexpected emails. Exercise heightened caution with any messages with personal or financial details.
- Faking phone calls
Yet another IRS scam revolves around fraudulent phone calls supposedly originating from individuals posing as IRS agents. These imposters may falsely declare that you owe unpaid taxes and demand immediate payment, typically via transfer or prepaid debit card.
- Collection of Tax Scams
Scammers might declare that you owe back them vast amounts of taxes, and you need to clear them out immediately. Additionally, they might threaten to seize all of your property, and you might get arrested.
- Threats of deportation, visa cancellation, or arrest
It is illegal for the IRS to deport or conduct arrests. Also, the organization has no way to change your immigration status or citizenship. You should hang up the phone if someone interacts with you, posing as the IRS, and threatens you with any of these threats. Out of fear, do not provide any personal information to them.
How do we protect ourselves?
The foremost thing is to keep your details and information private from others. Remember that the IRS has no right over your citizenship status matters. There are ways in which you can protect yourself electronically, some of which are installing virus protection or malware software on your devices, making strong passwords for all of your essential documents, and never sharing details of these with anybody.
