IRS Warns of Tax Scams

The IRS has been warning taxpayers about these schemes for years. Scammers often use email, text messages, or social media to impersonate the IRS and trick people into giving up personal information. Ghost preparers are a growing concern, as they don't sign the returns they prepare and often promise inflated refunds. Taxpayers should avoid preparers who refuse to sign the return or provide a business address. Phishing scams frequently involve fake emails or websites that look like the IRS, aiming to steal sensitive data. The IRS does not typically initiate contact with taxpayers via email requesting personal or financial information.