Scammers frequently impersonate the IRS to steal personal information and money. Understanding how the IRS communicates and employing protective measures can help you avoid falling victim to these schemes.
How Does the IRS Contact Taxpayers?
The IRS typically initiates contact through official letters or notices sent by mail. They rarely use phone calls, emails, or text messages for initial communication. If you receive a call claiming to be from the IRS demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest, it's likely a scam. The IRS will never demand immediate payment using specific methods like prepaid debit cards or gift cards. (irs.gov)
What Are Common IRS Scam Tactics?
Scammers employ various tactics to deceive taxpayers, including:
-
Phishing Emails and Texts: Messages that appear to be from the IRS, often containing fraudulent links or attachments.
-
Impersonation Calls: Threatening calls claiming to be from the IRS, demanding immediate payment or personal information.
-
Fake IRS Websites: Websites that mimic the official IRS site to collect personal information.
These scams can lead to identity theft and financial loss. (irs.gov)
How Can You Protect Yourself from IRS Scams?
To safeguard against IRS scams, consider the following steps:
-
Recognize Legitimate IRS Communication: The IRS will never contact you via email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information. They will first send a letter or notice by mail. (irs.gov)
-
Use the IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN): An IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers to help prevent identity thieves from filing fraudulent tax returns in their name. You can request an IP PIN online through the IRS website. (irs.gov)
-
Report Suspicious Communications: If you receive a suspicious call, email, or message claiming to be from the IRS, do not respond. Instead, report it to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov. (irs.gov)
-
Utilize Call-Blocking Technology: Services like Robokiller can help block scam calls by identifying and filtering out fraudulent numbers. Robokiller uses advanced algorithms and a vast database of known scam numbers to protect users from unwanted calls.
How Does Robokiller Help Protect Against IRS Scam Calls?
Robokiller offers several features to help protect users from IRS scam calls:
-
Advanced Call Blocking: Robokiller identifies and blocks known scam numbers, including those impersonating the IRS.
-
Spam Call Database: Robokiller maintains an extensive database of known scam numbers, which is regularly updated to ensure effective protection.
-
User Reports: Users can report suspicious numbers, contributing to the community-driven database and enhancing overall protection.
By using Robokiller, you can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive, including those from individuals impersonating the IRS.
What Should You Do if You Receive a Suspicious Call Claiming to Be from the IRS?
If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from the IRS:
-
Do Not Provide Personal Information: Legitimate IRS agents will never ask for sensitive information over the phone.
-
Hang Up Immediately: If the call is threatening or demanding immediate payment, hang up.
-
Verify the Call: Contact the IRS directly using the contact information on their official website to verify any claims.
-
Report the Call: Report the suspicious call to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov. (irs.gov)
How Can You Stay Informed About IRS Scams?
To stay informed about the latest IRS scams and protective measures:
-
Visit the IRS Website: Regularly check the IRS website for updates on scams and security tips.
-
Subscribe to IRS Newsletters: Sign up for IRS newsletters to receive timely information on tax-related security issues.
-
Follow IRS Social Media Accounts: Follow the IRS on social media platforms for real-time updates and alerts.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can better protect yourself from IRS scam calls and other fraudulent activities.
Highlights:
- Taxpayers should hang up if tax season scammers come calling | Internal Revenue Service, Published on Sunday, January 08
- Avoiding identity theft scammers posing as the IRS | Internal Revenue Service, Published on Monday, September 18
- No, the IRS isn't calling you. It isn't texting or emailing you, either | WLRN, Published on Thursday, April 06
