Phishing irs email scam

The IRS phishing email scam!

The IRS has been warning about this scam for years, and it's still going strong. Here's what you need to know:

What is the scam?

The scam involves an email that appears to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), claiming that you owe back taxes or have a refund waiting. The email usually includes a sense of urgency, stating that you need to take action immediately to avoid penalties or fines.

How does it work?

The scammer sends you an email that looks like it's from the IRS, with a fake subject line and a convincing message. The email may include:

  1. A fake IRS logo and official-looking letterhead.
  2. A claim that you owe back taxes or have a refund waiting.
  3. A demand for immediate payment or action to avoid penalties or fines.
  4. A request for personal and financial information, such as your Social Security number, bank account numbers, or credit card information.

How to spot a fake IRS email:

Here are some red flags to watch out for:

  1. Urgency: Legitimate IRS communications will not create a sense of urgency or panic.
  2. Grammar and spelling: Scammers often make mistakes in grammar and spelling. Legitimate IRS emails are usually well-written and free of errors.
  3. Links and attachments: Be cautious of links and attachments from unknown senders. They may contain malware or viruses.
  4. Personal information requests: Legitimate IRS communications will not ask for personal or financial information via email.
  5. Contact information: Legitimate IRS communications will include contact information, such as a phone number or address.

What to do if you receive a suspicious email:

  1. Do not respond: Do not reply to the email or click on any links or attachments.
  2. Do not provide personal information: Never give out personal or financial information to someone you don't know or trust.
  3. Report the email: Forward the email to the IRS at [email protected] and report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ftc.gov/complaint.
  4. Contact the IRS directly: If you're concerned about your tax situation, contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 or visit their website at www.irs.gov.

Additional tips:

  1. Keep your software up to date: Make sure your operating system, browser, and antivirus software are current to help prevent malware infections.
  2. Use strong passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all accounts, and consider using a password manager.
  3. Be cautious with attachments: Only open attachments from trusted sources, and be wary of attachments with unusual file extensions.

Remember, the IRS will never initiate contact with you via email or phone to request personal or financial information. If you're unsure about a communication from the IRS, it's always best to err on the side of caution and contact them directly.