Tax Season Scams Are Back. Here’s How to Stay Safe.

What You Should Know About IRS-Related Cyber Threats

Tax season can bring refunds, fresh financial planning, and unfortunately, an increase in scams.

Every year, cybercriminals ramp up efforts to impersonate the IRS, tax preparers, and financial institutions in hopes of stealing personal and financial information. These scams are getting more sophisticated, but the good news is that they’re also highly preventable when you know what to look for.

At Primis, protecting your money and personal information is a priority. Here’s what to watch for during tax season and how to stay one step ahead of scammers.

Why Tax Season Attracts Scammers

Tax filings require sensitive information like Social Security numbers, banking details, income records, and identity verification. That makes tax season a prime opportunity for fraud.

Scammers often rely on urgency and fear. They want you to believe:

You owe money immediately
Your refund is at risk
Your identity has been compromised
Your tax return needs verification

Their goal is simple: get you to share confidential information or send money before you have time to think.

Common IRS and Tax Season Scams

Fake IRS Emails and Text Messages (Phishing & Smishing)

Scammers frequently send emails or text messages that appear to come from the IRS or a tax service provider. These messages often include links or attachments designed to steal your login credentials or install malicious software.

Red flags include:

Requests for personal or financial information
Messages claiming you must act immediately
Links directing you to unfamiliar websites
Unexpected refund notifications

The IRS does not initiate contact through email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information.

Refund and Identity Theft Scams

Fraudsters may attempt to file a tax return using stolen personal information to claim a refund before you file your legitimate return.

You may discover this scam if:

You receive tax transcripts or confirmation letters unexpectedly
Your return is rejected because one was already filed
You receive IRS notices about activity you didn’t authorize

Fake Tax Preparers

Some scammers pose as tax professionals offering unusually fast refunds or promising to secure larger returns. In reality, they may steal your identity or file inaccurate returns in your name.

Be cautious of anyone who:

Refuses to sign your tax return
Asks you to sign blank forms
Promises guaranteed refunds
Requests payment based on refund size

How To Protect Yourself During Tax Season

File Early

Filing your tax return early reduces the chance of someone filing fraudulently in your name.

Strengthen Your Online Security

Use strong, unique passwords for financial accounts
Enable multi-factor authentication whenever available
Avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing financial or tax information

Monitor Your Accounts

Review bank accounts and credit activity regularly. Quick detection can prevent larger losses.

Protect Sensitive Documents

Store tax records securely and shred documents before disposing of them.

A safer tax season starts with awareness. Cybercriminals rely on confusion, urgency, and trust to carry out scams. Taking a few proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk. If you ever receive a message that seems suspicious or have concerns about your account security, reach out.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations to any individual.