The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued a warning on Monday regarding a new scam that is being sent to taxpayers. The scam involves a letter, enclosed in a cardboard envelope, that tries to deceive individuals into thinking they are entitled to a refund, according to the IRS. The letter bears the IRS masthead and claims to be related to an unclaimed refund. However, the contact information provided is not a legitimate IRS number. The recipients of the letter are asked to share personal information, such as driver’s license images, cellphone numbers, bank routing information, Social Security numbers, and bank account types. The IRS has cautioned that this information can be used by identity thieves.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel commented, “This is just another attempt by identity thieves to pose as the IRS and deceive individuals into providing valuable personal information for the purpose of identity theft and stealing tax refunds. These scams can be delivered via email, text, or even through special mailings. Individuals should be aware of the red flags that clearly identify these as IRS scams.”
One of the warning signs that indicate the letters are fake is the use of awkwardly-worded requests, such as asking for “A Clear Phone of Your Driver’s License That Clearly Displays All Four (4) Angles, Taken in a Place with Good Lighting.”
The fraudulent letter claims that individuals need to provide the requested information in order to receive their refund. The letter states, “These Must Be Given to a Filing Agent Who Will Help You Submit Your Unclaimed Property Claim. Once You Send All The Information Please Try to Be Checking Your Email for Response From The Agents Thanks.” In addition to the unusual wording, the letter contains inconsistent punctuation and a mix of fonts. Furthermore, the letter provides inaccurate information about tax return deadlines.
It is important to note that the IRS sends legitimate mail to taxpayers through the U.S. Postal Service and does not initiate contact via email, text, or social media.
The IRS advises individuals to refrain from clicking on unsolicited communications that claim to be from the IRS. Reports on phishing scams can be submitted to [email protected]. Scams can also be reported to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration or the Internet Crime Complaint Center. The IRS maintains an updated list of scams targeting taxpayers.
Individuals who wish to check their refund status can visit the IRS Where’s My Refund Page, use the app, or contact the IRS via phone.
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