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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 195 ), refund scam ( 12 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), smishing ( 17 ), tax scam   

  Tax Refund Text Scam Spreads Nationwide 

  

  By Greg Collier

  What began as a problem in just two states has since spread more widely, as residents across the country continue to report fraudulent text messages designed to steal financial information. State tax agencies are issuing alerts warning that these scams are evolving in both scale and sophistication, now targeting households in New York, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, and beyond.

  The messages often claim to come from state revenue departments and tell recipients that their refund request has been processed and approved. They then urge taxpayers to provide banking details, with some versions threatening permanent forfeiture of a refund if payment information is not submitted. Officials stress that legitimate state agencies do not request sensitive personal or financial information through unsolicited texts, emails, or phone calls.

  These fraudulent messages are structured to mimic the formal language of government communication. Some include references to tax statutes or deadlines, while others attempt to create urgency with warnings about penalties. Scammers rely on this sense of pressure to convince recipients to click links that lead to spoofed websites or to respond directly with private information. In some cases, even a simple reply can help scammers bypass basic security safeguards on some mobile devices.

  Cybersecurity experts point out that these campaigns have shifted from their earlier focus on banks and retailers to government institutions. By impersonating state tax departments, attackers exploit the authority of trusted institutions. The result is a scam that is more difficult for many taxpayers to dismiss outright.

  Tax agencies across multiple regions are advising residents to exercise caution. Suspicious messages should not be clicked or answered. Verification should be sought only through official state channels, such as tax department websites or phone lines. The broader pattern of these scams reflects the adaptability of cybercriminals and the need for continued public awareness, particularly during tax season when individuals are more likely to be anticipating legitimate communication from government offices.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 195 ), refund scam ( 12 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), smishing ( 17 ), tax scam   

  States Warn of Tax Refund Text Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  State tax agencies are once again warning residents to be cautious about fraudulent text messages designed to steal personal and financial information. Following reports of fake texts in New Jersey earlier this year, the Michigan Department of Treasury has now issued its own alert after receiving complaints of similar activity.

  In New Jersey, scammers have been sending messages that claim to come from the Department of the Treasury’s Division of Taxation. The texts state that a refund request has been processed and approved but warn that if payment details are not submitted by a specified deadline, the refund will be permanently forfeited under the New Jersey Gross Income Tax Act. The Division of Taxation has confirmed that these messages are not legitimate and has explained that text communication is used only in limited circumstances when requested through its phone system. Officials emphasize that residents should avoid clicking links or replying to such texts, since doing so can lead to spoofed websites that mimic official branding and request sensitive financial details. Replying with a single character such as “Y” can also be an attempt by scammers to bypass cell phone security safeguards.

  The Michigan Department of Treasury has reported nearly identical tactics. Residents have received texts that falsely claim to be from the agency, with messages urging them to update payment information or risk forfeiting their refunds. The Treasury has made clear that it never sends unsolicited text messages to request sensitive information and that official correspondence with taxpayers is conducted through letters sent via the U.S. Postal Service. Officials urge residents to delete suspicious messages and to contact the department directly with any questions about refunds or tax obligations. The state’s Individual Income Tax Information Line can also be used to log these scams and verify tax information.

  Authorities in both states describe these fraudulent texts as another tool in the cybercriminal playbook. They rely on urgency and the appearance of official language to pressure recipients into surrendering personal data. Cybersecurity experts note that links embedded in such messages often lead to convincing but fraudulent websites designed to capture bank account or credit card details.

  These scams also take advantage of the psychology of tax season. Residents may already be anticipating communication about refunds or tax issues, and scammers exploit this expectation by imitating the formal language of government. References to state statutes or threats of forfeiture are designed to create an appearance of authority and urgency, making recipients more likely to respond without questioning the message’s authenticity.

  Smishing campaigns have historically focused on banks, shipping companies, and retailers, but government agencies have increasingly become the target. By impersonating tax departments or other state offices, scammers add a layer of credibility that makes their messages seem harder to dismiss. This evolution reflects a broader trend in cybercrime, where attackers adjust their tactics to exploit the most trusted institutions and the most stressful times of year.

  As tax agencies across different states continue to issue similar warnings, the pattern highlights the adaptability of smishing campaigns and the importance of public awareness. Residents who receive suspicious messages are advised to treat them with caution, verify claims directly with state agencies, and avoid engaging with any request for personal or financial information delivered by text.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on January 16, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: income tax ( 17 ), IRS ( 29 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax preparer scam ( 3 ), tax scam   

  Tax Season Scams: What You Need to Know 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As tax season approaches, individuals and families are preparing to organize their financial records and submit their returns. With W-2 forms landing in mailboxes and deadlines on the horizon, it’s essential to remain wary against scams and misleading tax advice that surface during this time of year.

  The IRS emphasizes that if an offer or promise seems too good to be true, it probably is. Social media is a growing hub for questionable tax advice, with posts encouraging users to falsify information or misrepresent credits to maximize refunds. Falling for such guidance could lead to severe legal consequences and audits, making it crucial to verify the legitimacy of any advice you follow.

  Scammers often pose as representatives of the IRS, employing tactics such as threats, demands for immediate payment, or promises to resolve tax issues instantly. The IRS never initiates contact via text messages, emails, or phone calls. Official communication comes exclusively through mail. Any message urging immediate action or threatening penalties should be met with skepticism. Filing your taxes promptly can help minimize risks of identity theft, as it reduces the chance for fraudsters to file in your name and claim your refund.

  Organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) play a key role in educating consumers about tax scams. Reports to scam trackers often involve individuals receiving fraudulent calls, emails, or texts from impostors claiming to be with the IRS. These messages may include links to fake payment portals or demand sensitive information. Verifying the legitimacy of any contact with the IRS is critical, and trusted resources like the BBB can provide insight into whether a tax preparer or advertisement is reputable.

  Ultimately, staying proactive and informed is the best defense during tax season. By filing early, verifying information, and avoiding unsolicited messages claiming to resolve tax issues, you can protect your finances and identity from potential scams. Tax season can be stressful, but with the right precautions, it doesn’t have to be.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: income tax ( 17 ), IRS ( 29 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax debt relief, tax scam   

  Tax debt relief scams return 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Tax debt relief scams are on the rise, targeting vulnerable individuals with promises of settling tax obligations for mere pennies on the dollar. These scammers are exploiting the reputation of legitimate businesses to deceive people into handing over their money.

  One potential victim from Tennessee, for instance, was sitting on her front porch when she received an unsolicited call. Despite her poor vision, she quickly recognized the call for what it was, a scam. The caller claimed to be from the IRS Tax Relief Program. She knew better than to fall for the ploy and promptly hung up.

  Thanks to information from trustworthy sources, she knew that the IRS and Social Security never make unsolicited calls. They communicate through letters. This knowledge protected her from becoming a victim.

  It’s crucial to understand that the IRS will never call you out of the blue. There is no IRS Tax Relief Program that will contact you by phone. Scammers are simply dialing random numbers, hoping to find someone with a tax issue.

  To avoid tax debt relief scams, remember these key points. The IRS will never call you unsolicited. They only send letters. If you receive a letter from the IRS, attempt to resolve the issue directly with the agency. The IRS may offer a monthly payment plan or a way to pay less than you owe, but you must engage with them directly. Do not trust any company that claims you have ‘qualified’ or are ‘eligible’ for an IRS program. Only the IRS can make such determinations.

  By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your savings from these fraudulent schemes.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: guns ( 14 ), impersonation scam ( 195 ), IRS ( 29 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax scam   

  Armed IRS scammer meets victim in parking lot 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In recent years, scammers have grown increasingly bold in their efforts to extort money. While many scams continue to be executed online or over the phone, a new and more audacious group of scammers is now showing up at meetings with victims to collect their illicit gains in person. This brazen approach significantly heightens the danger for victims, particularly when firearms are involved.

  This week, a 51-year-old Michigan woman was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. She was allegedly involved in an elaborate scam aimed at intimidating victims into believing they were under investigation for tax fraud.

  The mastermind behind the scam was a man the suspect met online. He initiated the scheme by sending a text message to the victim, purportedly from the IRS, claiming the victim was under investigation for filing a fraudulent tax return. The victim was then threatened with a federal arrest.

  The scammer provided the suspect with fake documents, including an FBI arrest warrant and an IRS receipt. She delivered these documents to a parking lot, where she was tasked with collecting $60,000 from the victim. In return, she was promised $2,500 of the proceeds.

  To make the charade seem more convincing, the suspect carried an authentic police badge issued to someone else in Michigan. Most alarmingly, she was armed with a fully loaded firearm, which she kept in a holster.

  Whenever a firearm is involved in a situation like this, the outcome can be highly unpredictable and potentially violent. The best protection against such scenarios is to recognize the typical signs of a scam.

  In this particular scenario, it’s important to remember that the IRS will never call, text, or email you. If there is an issue with a tax return, the IRS will only communicate through a letter sent by mail. Additionally, they will never send someone to meet you to collect a payment, especially not in a parking lot. Anyone claiming to be from the government and arranging to meet you for money is a scammer.

  It is recommended that anyone who engages with a message like this should contact their local police immediately.

   
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  Geebo 9:01 am on February 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: debt collectors ( 12 ), impersonation scam ( 195 ), IRS ( 29 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax scam   

  New scam threatens driver’s license loss for not paying taxes 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Residents in San Bernardino County, California, are being alerted by authorities to beware of deceptive phone calls targeting debt collection or property tax payments.

  In a united effort, officials have issued a warning advising residents to exercise caution when approached by individuals purporting to be from county agencies, who assert threats of driver’s license suspension if payments are not promptly made. These callers are employing spoofed telephone lines to mimic legitimate county numbers, heightening the illusion of authenticity.

  It’s easy to assume that threats regarding your driver’s license in relation to debt collection or tax payments are always scams, but the reality is a bit more nuanced. While it’s true that in many states, including California, your driver’s license typically can’t be revoked solely for failure to pay taxes, there are scenarios where it can happen.

  For instance, in all 50 states, failing to pay child support can lead to license revocation. Additionally, in some states, if your tax debt exceeds a certain threshold, usually around $10,000, your driver’s license could be at risk. Although California doesn’t enforce this, nearly half of all states have laws allowing the revocation of licenses for delinquent taxpayers. So, while skepticism is wise, it’s also important to be aware of the varied circumstances where such actions can occur.

  Government agencies generally communicate sensitive financial matters like delinquent taxes through mail rather than phone calls, making phone calls regarding tax issues suspicious. Scammers often pose as the IRS, threatening victims with legal consequences such as jail time.

  Unfortunately, fraudulent debt collectors are a reality as well. However, there are steps you can take to handle them. Legitimate debt collectors are obligated to provide a debt verification letter upon request, detailing the origin of the debt. You can then verify the legitimacy and status of the debt. It’s also crucial to check your state’s statute of limitations on debt to understand your rights and responsibilities fully.

  By staying informed about the typical tactics employed by fraudsters, such as government impersonation and fake debt collection, and understanding our rights, such as requesting debt verification letters, we can better protect ourselves from falling victim to financial exploitation.

  Remember, if something feels off or too good to be true, it’s always wise to verify before taking any action. Together, with knowledge and caution, we can safeguard our finances and peace of mind against the ever-evolving threats of fraudulent schemes.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on January 24, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: income tax ( 17 ), IRS ( 29 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax preparer scam ( 3 ), tax return ( 6 ), tax scam   

  Tax season scams have already started 

  

  By Greg Collier

  This coming Monday, January 29th, is the first day you can file your income tax return. Scammers are aware of this, and will spend the next three months trying to steal from you using your tax return as bait. One report even states that scammers have already started sending out emails impersonating the IRS. The unsolicited emails state you can check the status of your return by clicking on a link. The link will more than likely take you to a website where you’ll be asked to enter your personal information in order to steal your identity. But, that isn’t the only tax scam you should be on the lookout for.

  The IRS impersonation scam stands out as the most prevalent fraudulent activity. In this scheme, perpetrators pretend to be representatives of the IRS when contacting their targets. Usually, these fraudulent callers inform their victims that they are delinquent in their taxes and insist on an immediate payment. Alternatively, some scammers falsely claim that the target is owed a refund and request bank account information. It’s important to note that the IRS typically does not communicate with individuals over the phone regarding tax matters. Any issues with a tax return would be addressed through the mail.

  During tax season, there’s an influx of transient tax preparers who may not have a reliable and long-term presence. If you plan to enlist the services of a professional to file your taxes, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the individual or company beforehand. Exercise caution if a tax preparer indicates an intention to close operations immediately after the filing deadline. In the event of an audit, having a tax preparer who can provide assistance is essential.

  Additionally, be cautious of tax preparers who link their fees to your tax refund. Fees should be determined based on the complexity of your tax return, not the refund amount. Ensure that the fee structure aligns with the effort required to complete your tax filing accurately.

  The most devastating tax scam involves scammers attempting to file a tax return using your identity. This underscores the importance of filing your return promptly. If a scammer successfully files a return in your name, you will likely receive a letter from the IRS indicating the receipt of duplicate returns. In the unfortunate event that you fall victim to this scam, it’s crucial to contact the IRS immediately.

  Delaying your response can complicate the process of rectifying the situation and recovering your tax return. Swift action is essential to minimize the impact of identity-related tax scams. Stay vigilant, file your return as early as possible, and promptly address any suspicious activity with the IRS if you suspect fraudulent filings in your name.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 5, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: IRS ( 29 ), refund scam ( 12 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax scam   

  New tax scam arriving in the mail 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Whenever there is a scam that involves a government agency like the IRS, Medicare, or Social Security, we tell our readers that if those agencies need to get in touch with you, they will do it by postal mail. However, even then, you have to be careful about what you can accept as fact, and what is a scam. Just this week, the IRS sent out a warning to taxpayers about a scam, which is being sent through the mail.

  According to the IRS, official looking letters are being sent in cardboard envelopes to unsuspecting victims. The letters appear to come with official IRS letterhead. But the more someone looks into the letter, the more it looks like a scam.

  The letter tells the recipient they have an unclaimed refund. The promise of ‘free money’ can cause some to ignore the red flags contained in the rest of the letter. For example, the letter asks for a copy of your driver’s license, but the instructions ask for “A Clear Phone of Your Driver’s License.” Then the letter recommends you “Try to Be Checking Your Email for Response”. While many aren’t particularly fond of the IRS, they would never allow a letter to be issued with this many grammatical errors. Not to mention, they wouldn’t capitalize every word.

  The letter also asks for personal information such as the recipient’s Social Security number, cellphone number, and bank account information. Along with a copy of someone’s driver’s license, scammers could easily steal someone’s identity and start taking out loans or opening lines of credit in that person’s name.

  There is also a phony customer service number contained in the letter.

  If you receive mail like this, and you have questions, do not call the number in the letter and don’t reply to any email addresses or websites listed. Instead, contact that federal office directly through their .gov website, or call them at their official customer service number, which can also be found on their website.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 28, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: income tax ( 17 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax preparer scam ( 3 ), tax return ( 6 ), tax scam, taxes ( 9 )   

  Not all tax preparers are on the level 

  

  By Greg Collier

  With the income tax deadline less than a month away, we’re sure there are still some who haven’t filed their tax return yet. One of the many benefits of filing early is avoiding a scam that was commonplace during the pandemic. Scammers would file returns in their victim’s name, and collect the return payment. When the victim went to file their return themselves, they would get a letter stating someone else had already claimed their return. This resulted in a bureaucratic nightmare for the victims. If you still haven’t filed, there’s another scam that you need to be aware of, especially if you’re having your taxes done professionally.

  A woman from Virginia is out $3000 after she allowed a company to process her tax return. She found an ad for the company through a social media ad, which we would never recommend doing. The victim went to the company’s website, and they appeared to be legitimate. She even had multiple conversations with the company over the phone and through emails. However, when it came to her tax return, the company allegedly filed her return without her permission and stole the payment. When the victim tried to contact the company, they had already disappeared.

  If you still need your taxes prepared, there are ways to protect yourself from this scam. Make sure to choose a tax preparer who is licensed and registered with the IRS. You can check the credentials of a tax preparer on the IRS website or through the Better Business Bureau.

  If a tax preparer promises you a big refund without even looking at your tax documents, it’s probably too good to be true. Avoid tax preparers who make unrealistic promises.

  Never sign a blank tax return or one that has incomplete information. Review your tax return thoroughly before signing it.

  Review your tax return for accuracy before submitting it to the IRS. If you notice any errors, contact your tax preparer immediately.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 7, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: income tax ( 17 ), IRS ( 29 ), mail fraud ( 24 ), Scams ( 1,591 ), tax scam   

  New scam targets taxpayers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In previous posts about tax season, we’ve warned our readers about the typical scams they might encounter. One of the tips we always give is that the IRS will never call or email you about your income tax return. Instead, the agency sends their notices through postal mail. But what if you got something in the mail that said you owed tax money? That’s what residents of Pennsylvania are having to deal with right now.

  Residents of the Keystone State have already started receiving letters in the mail which claim they owe the state a substantial amount in back taxes. Moreover, the letters residents are receiving threaten them with both wage garnishment and seizure of property if the bill is not paid. The letters are even labeled with “Final Demand for Payment”.

  All of these threats are part of common tactics used in most scams. First, the scammer wants you to have a sense of panic upon seeing the letter. They’re hoping to scare you into sending them a payment without doing any further research. Then the scammers increase the urgency of that fear by using threats of financial loss.

  If you receive a letter like this, don’t panic. Do your research. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, these letters are supposedly being sent by the ‘Tax Assessment Procedures Domestic Judgment Registry’. There is no such office or department in the state of Pennsylvania, or any other state for that matter. A quick Google search turns up a number of state complaints about this scam.

  Also, never call any phone number that may be included in the contents of the letter. That number will just be manned by scammers looking to intimidate you further into making a payment. Instead, go to your state’s Department of Revenues website to locate their direct contact information. They should be able to provide you with correct information about any possible tax balances.