5 Tax Scams to Avoid

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5 Tax Scams to Avoid

SecurityFebruary 7, 2018

Tax season can be a hectic, so it is important to stay alert. During this stretch of the year, scammers are highly active and are taking every opportunity to steal from the unsuspecting.

Here are a few scams to watch out for this year:

  1. Phishing scams. Fake emails or websites impersonating the IRS lure victims into sharing sensitive information.
  2. Phone scams. Criminals pretending to represent the IRS call victims demanding immediate payment and risk of arrest. Note that the IRS does not:
    • Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail you a bill if you owe any taxes.
    • Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.
    • Demand payment without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.
    • Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
  3. Identity theft. Scammers pose as accountants or tax-return preparers, filing tax refunds using victims’ Social Security numbers. By filing your taxes as soon as possible, you will avoid the chance of someone posing as you.
  4. Fake charities. Bogus charity funds will prey on people who just received their tax returns. Make sure to verify a charity before you donate to them. Here is a helpful link: https://www.charitynavigator.org/
  5. Inflated refund claims. Scammers promise inflated refunds in exchange for a signed tax return.

Click below for more information and examples of these scams:

  • https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts
  • https://www.ic3.gov/media/2018/180201.aspx
  • https://www.us-cert.gov/ncas/tips/ST04-014

Remember to use caution and follow you instincts. As a reminder, GLCU will never reach out to members via social media, phone calls, or email asking for sensitive information. If you receive suspicious communication from someone claiming to work for GLCU, please call us at (800) 982-7850.

5 Tax Scams to Avoid

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