Irs email scam 2022

The IRS email scam! It's a common and ongoing issue, and I'm happy to help you stay informed.

What is the IRS email scam?

The IRS email scam is a type of phishing scam where scammers send fake emails that appear to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or other government agencies. The goal is to trick victims into revealing sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, passwords, or financial information.

How does the scam work?

Here's a typical scenario:

  1. You receive an email that appears to be from the IRS or another government agency.
  2. The email claims that you owe back taxes, are eligible for a refund, or have a problem with your tax return.
  3. The email asks you to click on a link or download an attachment to resolve the issue.
  4. If you click on the link or download the attachment, you may be taken to a fake website that looks legitimate.
  5. The scammers may ask you to provide sensitive information, such as your Social Security number, bank account information, or passwords.

Red flags to watch out for:

  1. Urgency: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency, claiming that you need to take action immediately.
  2. Poor grammar and spelling: Legitimate government agencies typically have professional writing and proofreading.
  3. Suspicious links and attachments: Be cautious of links and attachments from unknown senders.
  4. Unusual requests: The IRS will never ask you to provide sensitive information via email or phone.
  5. Fake logos and graphics: Scammers may use fake logos and graphics to make the email look legitimate.

What to do if you receive a suspicious email:

  1. Don't respond: Don't reply to the email or click on any links.
  2. Don't provide sensitive information: Never give out your personal or financial information to someone you don't know.
  3. Report the email: Forward the email to the IRS at [email protected] or report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportphishing.ftc.gov.
  4. Verify the email: If you're unsure about the authenticity of an email, contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.

Additional tips:

  1. Keep your software up to date: Make sure your operating system, browser, and antivirus software are current.
  2. Use strong passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all accounts.
  3. Be cautious with attachments: Only open attachments from trusted sources.
  4. Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity.

Stay vigilant, and remember: the IRS will never initiate contact with you via email or phone to request sensitive information. If you're unsure about an email or phone call, it's always best to err on the side of caution and report it to the authorities.