Fraudsters are targeting taxpayers with bogus texts that claim they’ve received the COVID-19 Economic Impact Payment, or another benefit such as a tax rebate or refund. The texts include a link that directs recipients to a phishing website and asks them to enter their account information, according to a recent release from the IRS. The scammers are trying to steal personal and financial information or access accounts under a person’s name, the release says.
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The agency warns that the IRS never contacts people by phone, email or social media to request personal or financial information. It also never requests payments by gift card, prepaid debit cards or wire transfer services, such as Western Union. The agency says it will only contact taxpayers via mail if the matter is urgent, and that it typically sends several letters before reaching out by phone or other methods. URL : https://www.idahostatesman.com/acceso/article276162141.html
The agency’s release says that it will only call a taxpayer’s home if there is a serious issue, such as an unfiled tax return or overdue tax bill. It says even then, it will have sent the taxpayer several letters in advance of a home visit. And it will use official government envelopes, not regular commercial carrier envelopes. Those who suspect a scam can contact the IRS directly through its public phone numbers. And they can report suspected fraud by using the IRS’s online reporting tool. The tool allows taxpayers to report any suspicious calls, emails or social media posts that they believe are impersonating the IRS.