Brands

IRS scams

Reviewed reports that pretend to be the IRS. The IRS starts with a letter, not a surprise text or link.

• Lookalike charity using a trusted group's name
  Social media — Around the holidays and after disasters, scammers copy the name of a real charity and ask for donations. A group that wants gift cards, cryptocurrency, or an instant payment through an unsolicited link is a warning sign.
• Viral 'tax hack' advice on social media
  Social media — Social media posts sometimes promise tax shortcuts or credits that most people do not qualify for. Following that advice can delay a refund or lead to penalties, and the IRS put misleading tax advice on its 2026 Dirty Dozen list.
• AI-enabled IRS phone impersonation
  Impersonation — IRS phone scams now include computer-generated voices and caller ID that makes the call look official. The IRS generally contacts people by mail first and does not demand immediate payment or threaten arrest in a prerecorded call.
• IRS refund or tax-problem text and email
  Text — Scammers send texts, emails, or social media messages that look like they came from the IRS. They often use urgent language and QR codes that lead to fake IRS websites asking you to 'verify' an account or claim a refund.