In honor of my Caught Dead in Wyoming mystery series, my assistant Gabriella Samuels is writing for my newsletter and blog a series of consumer tips inspired by TV reporter Elizabeth Margaret Danniher.
Tax Day is just around the corner. Although we’ve previously discussed IRS scams, the recent formation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and IRS employee dismissals have led to a rise in tax-related and IRS-specific scams. These cuts have hampered the IRS’s ability to detect and respond to fraudulent schemes. Furthermore, artificial intelligence’s (AI) rising popularity by scammers has left people more vulnerable than before.
Scammers take advantage of the stress of the tax season to prey upon people. The threat of audits, financial losses, and imprisonment causes victims to react impulsively, thus exposing them to monetary or privacy risks.
Always remember that knowledge is power, so here are some things to remember for looking out at during tax season:
- Scammers use AI-created fake emails, calls, and texts to contact and steal your information – The IRS will not contact you with these methods to ask for your personal information.
- Never click a suspicious website link you receive in an email especially if you do not recognize the sender.
- Double check individuals and businesses that claim to be “tax experts” – you can check on accredited tax preparers here.
- Be wary if the promise of “big tax return paydays” – if it is too good to be true, it probably is.
- If something feels off, trust your gut – Always check the official IRS website and contact them directly if you have questions or concerns.
For more information, the IRS publishes the “Dirty Dozen,” a list of the most common scams to watch out for. Read the full list here.
Always stay vigilant and prepared for the tax season.