It’s that time of year again – tax season is here and scammers are on the prowl. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers to be on the lookout for various tax scams, including identity theft and fraudulent phone calls, texts, and emails.
Common Scams
One common scam involves thieves stealing personal information and using it to file a fake tax return in someone else’s name. The victim may not even realize their identity has been stolen until they try to file their own tax return and receive an error message saying one has already been filed.
Another scam involves fraudulent phone calls or emails from someone claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The scammer may demand payment for a fake tax bill or threaten arrest if the victim doesn’t comply. It’s important to remember that the IRS will never ask for personal information or payment over the phone or by email.
Text message scams are also on the rise, with thieves sending fake texts claiming to be from the IRS or a tax preparation company. These texts may contain links to fake websites or ask for personal information.
How To Protect Yourself
To protect yourself from tax scams, the BBB recommends being cautious of any unsolicited phone calls or emails and never giving out personal information or making payments over the phone or online. If you receive a suspicious call or email, hang up and contact the IRS directly to verify its authenticity.
It’s also a good idea to be vigilant about protecting your personal information and to file your tax return as soon as possible to reduce the risk of someone else filing in your name.
Wrap UP
In summary, tax season can be a stressful time for many people, but it’s important to be aware of the potential for scams. By following a few simple precautions and staying alert, you can protect yourself and your personal information from scammers looking to take advantage of the tax season rush.