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

IRS Scam Letters 2026 with QR Code - Beware
IRS Scam Letters 2026 with QR Code - Beware

There are fraudulent IRS Notice CP53E letters circulating that attempt to steal banking information by asking recipients to scan a QR code or call a number to "receive a refund," often dated in the future. Do not reply, scan, or call. Legit CP53E notices only request updates via the official IRS online account.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Fake Contact Info: Scammers use QR codes, fake phone numbers, or emails to solicit bank details, which the IRS never does.
  • Future Dating: The letter may be dated a week or more in the future.
  • The "Penalty" Trap: Even if you owe money, you might get a fake letter claiming a small penalty refund to trick you.
  • No Urgent Action Needed: If you ignore the fake letter, you will simply receive a paper check in the mail later, usually within 6 weeks.
  • Use Only Official Channels: Only update banking info by logging directly into irs.gov.

If you receive a suspicious letter, verify it by checking your IRS account transcript directly at IRS.gov to see if a real notice was issued.

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