The Internal Revenue Service warns of widespread scams involving text messages, emails, and calls falsely claiming you owe taxes. Scammers are also using sophisticated voice-mimicry and deepfake video calls to demand immediate payments for fake tax debts. The IRS initiates contact through official mail, never via text, email, or social media, and will not demand immediate payment via gift cards or wire transfers.

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Critical Red Flags

The IRS (and its authorized private collectors) will NEVER do the following:

  • Initiate contact via text, email, or social media: They typically send multiple written notices via the U.S. Postal Service before calling.
  • Demand immediate payment: They will not ask for money over the phone without giving you the chance to appeal or question the amount.
  • Require specific payment methods: The IRS never accepts gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, crypto, or third-party apps like Zelle.
  • Threaten law enforcement: They will not threaten to bring in local police to have you arrested, deported, or to revoke your licenses.

Scams to Watch For

  • AI-Enabled Impersonation: Criminals use AI to mimic the voices of IRS agents or generate realistic video calls to create a false sense of legitimacy.
  • Refund & Stimulus Phishing: Messages claiming you are owed a $1,400 payment or a recalculated refund are used to steal personal info via malicious links.
  • "Ghost" Tax Preparers: Avoid preparers who refuse to sign your return or include an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN).
  • Social Media Tax Advice: Be wary of TikTok or X (formerly Twitter) posts promoting non-existent credits, such as a broad "Self-Employment Tax Credit" of up to $32,000.
  • Offer in Compromise (OIC) Mills: Companies that charge high fees and promise to settle tax debt for "pennies on the dollar" when you don't actually qualify.

Protect Yourself

  1. Verify Directly: If you are unsure, hang up and call the official IRS hotline at 1-800-829-1040 or check your IRS Online Account.
  2. Report Phishing: Forward suspicious emails or copies of texts to phishing@irs.gov.
  3. Report Phone Scams: Use the TIGTA IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form or call 1-800-366-4484.
  4. Secure Your Identity: If your identity is compromised, visit IdentityTheft.gov to create a recovery plan.