Scam alert: fake text messages impersonating the IRS
The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration has issued a warning to taxpayers: scammers are impersonating the IRS by sending fraudulent text messages requesting sensitive personal information.
These fake texts attempt to exploit taxpayers’ concerns by falsely promising economic impact payments, also known as recovery rebate credits. Taxpayers are reminded that the IRS does not request personal or financial information via text.
Payments for eligible taxpayers are issued automatically, either through direct deposit or paper checks and no action is required to receive them. Scammers, however, are using these announcements to steal personal data.
“The rise in tax-related scams is troubling, especially when taxpayers are targeted during times of financial uncertainty,” said Scott Artman, CPA, CGMA, CEO of the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP). “We urge taxpayers to stay vigilant and to consult trusted tax professionals who prioritize accuracy and integrity.”
How to spot a scam
Taxpayers should be on the lookout for the following red flags:
- Text messages claiming to be from the IRS: The IRS does not communicate via text for economic impact payments or other sensitive matters.
- Suspicious links: Federal government website addresses end in ".gov". Any other domain, such as ".com" or ".net," is a red flag.
- Requests for personal information: Never share personal or financial details like Social Security numbers or bank account information in response to unsolicited texts.
What to do if you receive a scam text message impersonating the IRS
- Do not respond
- Do not click any links
- Report the message to the appropriate authorities or the IRS hotline
The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is the largest nonprofit organization that works exclusively for tax professionals. We serve members through education, advocacy and community, providing the tools they need to navigate the tax code and the insights the media can trust.
Looking for a tax expert? Tom O’Saben, EA, director of tax content and government relations at NATP, is available for phone or video interviews to discuss federal tax topics, including tax law change and its implications, taxpayer issues, tax preparer regulation and more. To schedule an interview with O’Saben, contact [email protected] or [email protected].