9 Ways to Spot IRS Scams and Impersonators (And How to Stay Safe)
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is one of the most commonly impersonated government agencies in scams. Fraudsters use fear tactics, phishing emails, and threatening phone calls to trick taxpayers into revealing sensitive financial information or making fraudulent payments.
How to Recognize IRS Scams (10 Major Red Flags)
Here are 9 warning signs that can help you identify an IRS scam:
- You Receive a Phone Call from the IRS First
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS does not make first contact via phone.
The IRS always initiates contact through official mail before making a phone call. If you receive an unexpected call claiming to be from the IRS demanding money or information, hang up immediately—it’s a scam.
- They Leave a Prerecorded Voicemail
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS does not leave automated, threatening voicemails.
Scammers use robocalls to leave alarming messages, urging you to call back or face legal action. The real IRS does not operate this way. Ignore and report these messages.
- You Receive an Email from the IRS
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS does not request personal or financial details via email.
If you receive an email claiming to be from the IRS:
✔ Do not reply.
✔ Do not click any links.
✔ Do not open any attachments.
✔ Check the sender’s domain—official IRS websites end in “IRS.gov” (not “.com,” “.net,” or “.org“).
- You Receive a Text Message from the IRS
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS does not send text messages requesting information.
Scammers may send texts with fake IRS links, asking you to verify personal details or make payments. Never click on these links—they can steal your data or install malware on your device.
- They Contact You via Social Media
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS does not reach out via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
If you receive a DM or friend request from someone claiming to be the IRS, it’s a scam. The IRS will never discuss personal tax matters over social media.
- The Form They Reference Isn’t on the IRS Website
🚨 Red Flag: Scammers often invent fake tax forms.
If you receive a suspicious form, verify it by checking the IRS official website (www.IRS.gov). If the form isn’t listed there, it’s probably a scam.
- They Ask for Credit or Debit Card Information Over the Phone
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS does not request card payments over the phone.
A real IRS agent will never demand your credit card or debit card details over a call. If someone insists on immediate payment by card, it’s a scam.
- They Demand Payment with Gift Cards or Prepaid Debit Cards
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS does not accept gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or cryptocurrency as payment.
Scammers often insist that you purchase gift cards and provide the numbers over the phone. The IRS only accepts payments made to the U.S. Treasury via official channels like:
✔ Direct pay at IRS.gov
✔ Electronic Funds Withdrawal
✔ Checks or money orders payable to the U.S. Treasury
- They Threaten You with Arrest, Deportation, or License Revocation
🚨 Red Flag: The IRS cannot
Scammers use fear tactics like:
❌ Threatening to revoke your driver’s license, business licenses, or immigration status.
❌ Claiming to send law enforcement to arrest you immediately.
❌ Insisting on instant payment with no right to appeal.
The IRS follows a legal process and will never use aggressive threats. If you receive a call or letter using this kind of language, it’s a scam.
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert and Protect Your Finances
IRS scammers prey on fear and confusion. By knowing how to recognize scams, you can stay one step ahead and protect your personal and financial information.
✔ The IRS does not demand immediate payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
✔ The IRS will always send an official letter before scheduling an in-person meeting.
✔ If you receive a suspicious call, email, or letter, report it immediately.
By staying informed, you can safeguard yourself against fraudsters pretending to be the IRS. And of course, if you have any questions, reach out to FineMark. We are here to help.
