Beware of IRS Smishing Texts
IRS smishing texts have become an increasingly prevalent threat to taxpayers. These fraudulent text messages use urgent language to trick victims into clicking malicious links or taking immediate action, often leading to identity theft or financial loss. Understanding how these scams operate is crucial for protecting yourself and your sensitive information.
Threat Type
IRS smishing texts are a form of phishing that uses SMS messages to impersonate the IRS and steal personal or financial information from unsuspecting victims.
Communication Method
Scammers send text messages directly to victims’ phones, often in large-scale campaigns that can reach thousands of people within hours or days.
Demands or Actions Requested
These texts typically urge recipients to click on embedded links, provide personal information, or make immediate payments for alleged tax issues.
Red Flags
- Text messages claiming to be from the IRS
- Urgent language demanding immediate action
- Links to non-official websites
- Requests for personal or financial information via text
Scammer Claims
Fraudsters may claim you’re eligible for a tax refund, owe back taxes, or need to verify your information to process a payment. They often use current events or disasters as a pretext for their scams.
Psychological Manipulation Tactics
IRS smishing texts exploit fear and urgency, pressuring victims to act quickly without verifying the legitimacy of the message.
Target Audience
While these scams can target anyone, they often focus on individuals less familiar with IRS procedures, such as young adults or recent immigrants.
How to Verify Legitimacy
The IRS never initiates contact with taxpayers via text message to request personal or financial information. If you receive a suspicious text claiming to be from the IRS, do not respond or click any links.
What to Do if Targeted
- Do not reply to the text or click on any links
- Forward the text to [email protected]
- Delete the original message after reporting it
Report IRS smishing texts to:
- The IRS at [email protected]
- The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA)
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Consequences of Falling Victim
Victims of IRS smishing texts risk identity theft, financial loss, and potential malware infections on their devices.
Preventive Measures
- Be skeptical of unsolicited text messages claiming to be from the IRS
- Never provide personal or financial information in response to a text message
- Keep your phone’s operating system and security software up to date
Seasonal Trends
IRS smishing texts often increase during tax season when people are more likely to expect communication from the IRS.
IRS Official Policy
The IRS emphasizes that it does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages, or social media to request personal or financial information.By staying informed about IRS smishing texts and following these guidelines, you can better protect yourself from falling victim to these deceptive scams.
