Tax Season Scams: How to Protect Yourself From Fraud and Theft

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYIPEQVZsLY

Scammers often pretend to be the IRS or a tax professional and may pressure you to act immediately, click a link, or send payment. They also use fake websites and texts to capture Social Security numbers, bank details, and login credentials.

How to protect yourself

• File early so a criminal has less time to submit a fake return in your name.

• Use a secure IRS online account and monitor your records for unfamiliar activity.

• Never click suspicious links in emails or texts; go directly to the official website instead.

• Use strong, unique passwords and turn on multi-factor authentication for tax and financial accounts.

• Work only with trusted, credentialed tax preparers and verify their identity before sharing information.

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If you think you were targeted

If you receive a suspicious message, do not respond, and do not provide payment or personal information. If you believe your identity or refund has been compromised, report it to the IRS and other relevant authorities right away.