The following is a news release from the Better Business Bureau.
IDAHO FALLS – Tax scams are among the most stubborn cons out there. They reappear often, each time with a slightly different spin. Better Business Bureau advises taxpayers to watch out for these four tax scams:
IRS Impersonation Scam
According to the 2022 BBB Online Scams Report, impersonating an authority figure or organization accounted for 54% of online purchase scams. IRS impersonation scams most often start with a phone call from a fake IRS agent. The “agent” says you owe back taxes and pressures you into paying by prepaid debit card or wire transfer. If you don’t comply, the scammer threatens you with arrest and fines. This information can later be used for identity theft.
The callers are professional criminals who sound official with fake badge numbers and names. Knowing how the IRS communicates can help consumers avoid this type of fraud.
Tax Identity Theft Scams
Identity theft was the top fraud reported to the FTC in 2021. Tax identity fraud occurs when a scammer uses another person’s social security number to file a tax return and claim a refund. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize there is a problem until they file their return and receive a notice that their taxes have already been submitted.
Email Phishing Scams
This scam involves an urgent email directing the person to update their file immediately and includes a link to a bogus website that looks like the IRS site. Once…
