Beware of Last Chance IRS Scams

Last chance IRS scams are a deceptive tactic used by fraudsters to create a sense of urgency and fear in their victims. These scams typically involve urgent messages claiming to be your final opportunity to resolve an issue with the IRS before severe legal action is taken. Understanding how these scams operate is crucial for protecting yourself from financial loss and identity theft.

Threat Type
This scam involves impersonating IRS officials to extort money or personal information by claiming imminent legal action for alleged tax issues.

Communication Method
Scammers typically contact victims through unexpected phone calls or emails. They may use spoofed caller IDs to make their calls appear legitimate or send official-looking emails with urgent subject lines.

Demands or Actions Requested
Victims are pressured to make immediate payments or provide sensitive personal information to “resolve” the alleged tax issue and avoid legal consequences.

Red Flags

• Urgent messages claiming to be a “last chance” to resolve IRS issues
• Threats of immediate legal action, arrest, or other severe consequences
• Demands for payment through unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers
• Unsolicited calls or emails claiming to be from the IRS

Scammer Claims
Fraudsters assert that the victim owes back taxes or has other unresolved issues with the IRS. They claim that immediate action is required to avoid arrest, lawsuits, or other legal penalties.

Psychological Manipulation Tactics
Last chance IRS scams exploit fear and urgency, creating panic that leads victims to act impulsively without verifying the legitimacy of the communication.

Target Audience
While anyone can be targeted, these scams often focus on seniors, immigrants, and individuals less familiar with IRS procedures.

How to Verify Legitimacy
The IRS initiates most contacts through regular mail delivered by the United States Postal Service. If you receive a suspicious “last chance” communication, contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 to verify your tax status.

What to Do if Targeted

• Do not provide personal information or make payments
• Hang up immediately if you suspect a scam call
• Do not click on links or download attachments in suspicious emails
• Report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA)

Report last chance IRS scams to:

• TIGTA at 1-800-366-4484 or www.tigta.gov
• The Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint

Preventive Measures

• Be skeptical of unsolicited communications claiming to be from the IRS
• Verify all tax-related claims through official IRS channels before taking any action
• Keep your personal and financial information secure

Remember, the IRS will never demand immediate payment without first mailing you a bill, nor will they threaten to involve law enforcement for non-payment. By staying informed about last chance IRS scams and following these guidelines, you can protect yourself from these deceptive tactics.