How to report irs email scams
The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text message, or social media to request personal or financial information. If you receive an email claiming to be from the IRS, it's likely a scam. Here's how to report IRS email scams:
- Forward the email to [email protected]: Forward the suspicious email to [email protected]. This will help the IRS to identify and track these scams.
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC is responsible for collecting and analyzing data on consumer complaints, including those related to IRS email scams. You can report the scam to the FTC at www.ftc.gov/complaint.
- Contact the IRS: If you're concerned about the authenticity of an email claiming to be from the IRS, you can contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040. Be aware that the IRS will never initiate contact with you by email, text message, or social media to request personal or financial information.
- Report the scam to your email provider: If you receive an email claiming to be from the IRS, report it to your email provider's abuse department. They can help block the sender's email address and prevent future scams.
- Be cautious with attachments and links: Never open attachments or click on links from suspicious emails, as they may contain malware or phishing scams.
Additional tips to avoid IRS email scams:
- Be wary of emails that:
- Claim to be from the IRS and request personal or financial information.
- Use generic greetings, such as "Dear taxpayer" instead of addressing you by name.
- Contain poor grammar or spelling.
- Ask you to click on links or download attachments.
- Never respond to emails claiming to be from the IRS, as this can confirm your email address as active and increase the likelihood of future scams.
- Keep your personal and financial information secure by using strong passwords, keeping your software up to date, and being cautious when sharing information online.
Remember, the IRS will never initiate contact with you by email, text message, or social media to request personal or financial information. If you're unsure about the authenticity of an email or phone call claiming to be from the IRS, hang up or delete the email and contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.