Tax Scam Calls - How to Protect Yourself

Major Red Flags of a Tax Scam Call

The absolute easiest way to spot a scammer is by how they demand contact and payment.

• The method of contact: The IRS will always initiate contact via official U.S. mail first. They do not make unexpected, out-of-the-blue calls, texts, or social media messages demanding your personal information.Aggressive threats: Scammers play on fear by threatening immediate arrest, driver's license suspension, lawsuits, or deportation. The real IRS gives you multiple opportunities to question or appeal what you owe before taking any action.
• Unusual payment demands: Fraudsters will demand immediate payment using untraceable methods, such as gift cards, wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, or cryptocurrency. The IRS will never demand payment over the phone or insist on these forms of payment.
• Offers that sound too good to be true: Calls offering instant entry into an "IRS liability reduction program" or pitching unsolicited tax relief options are fake marketing setups designed to steal your money or identity.

What to Do If You Receive a Call

1. Do not engage: Do not speak, reply to prompts, or press any numbers to "opt out." Just hang up.
2. Do not give out info: Never reveal or confirm numbers related to your Social Security, bank accounts, or credit cards.
3. Verify your account safely: If you think you genuinely owe back taxes, do not trust the callback number provided by the caller. Instead, log into your secure account directly via the IRS Official Website or call their verified, published customer service number at 1-800-829-1040.