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Tax season means scam season

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Taxes are painful but it can be even more painful if you even up enshared in a a tax scam. The IRS is warning consumers about some of the latest ways fraudsters are trying to take even more of your money than Uncle Sam.

Social Networking

If you get a Facebook message, Twitter tweet or unexpected e-mail that purports to be from the IRS, don't trust it. Scammers are sending tweets or messages on social networking sites offering a guaranteed tax refund. There are no guaranteed tax refunds - this is a scam.

Phishing for Personal Information

Scammers often send emails looking for personal information, like your name, address, or Social Security number. During tax season, however, they will often offer you an immediate tax return from the "IRS" if you'll divulge the information. This is a scam to mine you for data that can be used to steal your identity. The IRS does not contact taxpayers via email about refunds, or surveys, or probes, and does not ask for personal information via email.

Banking Emails

Posing as a bank, some thieves use ploys to get your banking information, such as sending a fake direct deposit form. Don't ever provide any sensitive information such as passwords or PINS via email. Don't open or answer these emails, just delete them. Again, the IRS does not request any information from consumers by way of email.

Fake IRS websites

Sometimes scammers get creative with design programs and throw the IRS logo on an email or fake website to make it look more official. These can be very convincing so be on your guard. Any website that doesn't begin with www.irs.gov is a fake.

'Experts'

Need help from a tax preparer? Make sure you find one that is legitimate. Some scams claim they can get you a bigger refund and will manipulate your tax return to get it for you, whether or not it's accurate. These scammers will often base their fee on a percentage of your refund, giving them a big incentive to overlook taxes you may owe. Remember, even if you are scammed by a tax preparer, you'll still owe any unpaid taxes - plus interest and fines.

Need help or more information? Visit the IRS's website on scams or call their scam hotline at (800) 366-4484.