Irs mail scam 2023

The IRS has issued warnings about various mail scams in 2023. Here are some common ones to be aware of:

  1. Fake IRS Letters: Scammers may send fake letters claiming you owe back taxes or have unclaimed refunds. These letters may look official, but they're designed to trick you into revealing personal information or sending money.
  2. Phony Tax Refund Checks: Scammers may send fake tax refund checks and ask you to deposit them and then send back a portion of the money. This is a classic scam to get your banking information.
  3. IRS Impersonation Scams: Scammers may call or email claiming to be from the IRS, demanding payment for alleged tax debts. They may threaten to arrest or fine you if you don't comply. Remember, the IRS will never call or email you out of the blue demanding payment.
  4. Fake Tax Preparation Services: Scammers may offer fake tax preparation services, promising to help you with your taxes in exchange for a fee. Be cautious of services that promise unrealistic refunds or ask for upfront payment.
  5. Email Phishing Scams: Scammers may send emails claiming to be from the IRS, asking you to update your personal information or click on links to access your account. Never click on links or provide personal information in response to unsolicited emails.

To protect yourself from these scams:

  1. Verify the authenticity of IRS communications: If you receive a letter or email from the IRS, verify its authenticity by contacting the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.
  2. Be cautious of unsolicited calls or emails: If someone claims to be from the IRS, hang up or delete the email. The IRS will never initiate contact with you by phone or email.
  3. Don't respond to suspicious emails or calls: Don't provide personal information or click on links in response to suspicious emails or calls.
  4. Use reputable tax preparation services: Choose tax preparation services that are reputable and have good reviews.
  5. Report scams to the IRS: If you've been targeted by a scam, report it to the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov.

Remember, the IRS will never:

Stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the IRS or FTC.