Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Professional Tax Associates Scam
Professional Tax Associates Scam

Scammers posing as tax professionals often use "new client" phishing emails, fake "tax resolution" calls, or promise inflated refunds to steal sensitive information and money. These fraudsters, sometimes called "ghost preparers," may avoid signing returns or install malware through malicious links to gain access to client data.

Spot a Scam

  • New Client Phishing: Emails claiming to be a new client seeking help, often containing malicious links or attachments that steal login credentials.
  • Too Good to Be True: Promises of massive refunds, especially based on inflated claims like the Fuel Tax Credit.
  • Suspicious Phone Calls: Unsolicited calls from "tax resolution teams" demanding immediate payment.
  • Ghost Preparers: Preparers who refuse to sign the tax return or fail to include their PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number).
  • Social Media Scams: Misleading advice and fraudulent form filing promoted on social media.

Protect Yourself

  • Verify Credentials: Check the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy website for active CPA licenses.
  • Avoid Clicking Links: Do not open unexpected attachments or click links in emails.
  • Use Multi-Factor Authentication: Secure your email and financial accounts.
  • Report Fraud: Contact the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to report suspicious calls.
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