Tax season is stressful enough without scammers trying to steal your personal information, refund, or even your identity. Unfortunately, criminals know this is the time of year when millions of Americans are filing returns—and they take full advantage. The IRS warns that tax season is a prime time for fraud attempts, especially as criminals ramp up efforts to trick people through messages that look official and urgent.
Here are the top scams credit union members should be aware of this tax season—and how to stay safe.
Phishing and Smishing Messages
Scammers send emails (phishing) or text messages (smishing) pretending to be the IRS, a tax preparer, or a financial institution. These messages often contain urgent warnings or links to fake websites designed to steal Social Security numbers, bank details, or login credentials.
Red Flags Include:
- Messages claiming there is a problem with your return
- Requests for personal and financial information
- Links or attachments asking you to "verify" your account
What to do: The IRS never initiates contact by email, text, or social media. Visit IRS.gov directly instead of clicking on any link.
Fake IRS or Tax Consultant Calls
Criminals frequently pose as IRS agents or tax professionals claiming you owe back taxes or must act urgently to avoid penalties or arrest. Some impersonators even spoof caller ID to appear legitimate. Others pose as "tax consultants" offering to fix invented issues—then steal your personal information to drain bank accounts or commit identity theft.
What to do: The IRS will never demand payment over the phone or via gift cards, wire transfers, or digital payment apps. Hang up and contact the IRS directly.
Fraudulent Tax Assistance & Fake Refund Alerts
A newer trend involves scammers sending fake refund notifications or "urgent" account alerts that appear to come from the IRS or tax preparation services. These lead to fake login pages designed to steal credentials. Criminals also offer "free" or "low-cost" help—often mimicking legitimate tax programs—to capture your sensitive financial information.
What to do: If you receive a refund alert you weren’t expecting, do not respond. Check the status only through the official "Where's My Refund?" tool at IRS.gov.
Misleading Social Media Tax AdviceThe IRS warns that social media remains a hotbed for fraudulent tax tips. Influencers may encourage filers to claim ineligible credits or file improper returns, which can lead to audits, penalties, or legal repercussions. Some schemes connect users directly to scammers posing as tax professionals.
What to do: Only rely on advice from credentialed tax professionals or official IRS guidance. If it sounds too good to be true—it almost certainly is.
Fake Charities & Donation ScamsScammers often exploit disasters or seasonal giving trends by creating fake charities. These scams not only steal your donation but may also expose your personal information.
What to do: Verify charities using the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search Tool before donating.
Identity Theft & Fraudulent Tax ReturnsSome scammers use stolen personal information to file tax returns and claim refunds before the real taxpayer can. Victims typically discover the fraud when their legitimate return is rejected.
What to do: Consider applying for an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)—a six-digit code from the IRS that prevents someone else from filing using your Social Security number.
Scams Targeting SeniorsCriminals specifically target older adults with highly convincing calls, emails, or messages requesting personal or financial information. Once money is sent, scammers often return asking for more.
What to do: Remind senior family members and members of your community that the IRS will never pressure anyone to act immediately or send money through unconventional methods.
- Never share personal information unless you initiate the contact.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links—go straight to the source instead.
- Monitor your accounts regularly for any unusual activity.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication when available.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to the IRA. You can report unsolicited emails or texts claiming to be the IRS to phishing@irs.gov.
- Think you might be a victim? Take action right away. If you clicked on a link in a suspicious email or text, file a report at identitytheft.gov to get a customized recovery plan based on the information that you shared.Additionally, if you suspect you're a victim of fraud of identity theft, let your credit union know. Give Members First a call at (850) 434-2211 or visit a branch near you to speak with a financial representative.
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