GOT AN UNEXPECTED TAX RETURN?
And a Request to Return It
The latest con launched by the fraudsters is the “IRS Refunds” scam. The cybercriminals either steal client data from tax preparers or trick people into clicking on an email link or attachment to a fake page where thieves attempt to steal sensitive information.
Once the taxpayer’s data has been secured, the criminals file fraudulent tax returns that often direct tax refunds to be deposited to the taxpayer’s bank account.
Next, the crooks typically contact the victims by phone demanding that the money be returned. Their “cover” is to pose either as IRS agents or an IRS-authorized collection firm.
In another scenario, the taxpayer may receive a recorded call charging the taxpayer with fraud, threatening the victim with arrest and a “blacklisting” of their Social Security number. The recorded voice then tells the taxpayer to call a number for information on returning the refund. See IR-2018-27.
These are examples of current various tactics the thieves use to reclaim the refund from the taxpayers. Be alert! Their versions of the scam may continue to evolve.
The IRS has repeatedly confirmed that they will not:
- Call to demand immediate payment over the phone, nor call about delinquent taxes without first mailing you several bills.
- Call or email you to verify your identity by asking for personal and financial information.
- Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.
- Require you to use a specific payment method, e.g. a prepaid debit card, etc.
- Ask for credit or debit card numbers via phone or email.
- Threaten to have you arrested or other penalty for not paying.
As directed by the IRS …
If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS and asking for money here’s what you should do:
- Do not give out any information. Hang up immediately.
- Contact TIGTA to report the call. Use their IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting web page or call 800-366-4484.
- Report it to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting FTC.gov and clicking on “File a Consumer Complaint.” Please add “IRS Telephone Scam” in the notes.
- If you think you might owe taxes, call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.
More information on how to report phishing or phone scams is available on IRS.gov.