The IRS is alerting taxpayers about a texting scam making the rounds asking for sensitive information. The scam has taxpayers thinking it's to get an Economic Impact Payment, but the scam steals personal data.
The scammers are counting on the IRS's recent announcement to issue automatic payments to eligible people who didn't claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (also known as an Economic Impact Payment) on their 2021 tax returns. The IRS is telling the public that no action is needed by eligible taxpayers to receive these payments. Payments will go out automatically and taxpayers should receive them by the end of the month, which will be automatically direct deposited or sent by paper check.
Here are some guidelines on how to spot a scam:
- The IRS will NOT request personal or financial information from text.
- Federal government website addresses end in ".gov". Scammers will often use similar or official sounding websites, but it has another domain extension like ".com".
About Business Consumer Alliance
Business Consumer Alliance (BCA) is a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening integrity in the marketplace. We help consumers by resolving disputes and providing transparent business reputation reports. At the same time, we support contractors, movers, and small business owners with contract assistance, arbitration services, reputation management resources, along with business and HR advice. We’re here to help good businesses stand out and succeed while protecting the public.