A new type of fraud: how you are deceived by sending 'letters from the IRS'

Do not be fooled. The IRS will never send you any unsolicited emails or messages about your tax returns.

Фото: Depositphotos

Officials have warned taxpayers about a new type of scam: unsolicited emails from scammers claiming to represent the IRS, writes Fox Business.

Some of the letters included topics such as “Automatic Income Tax Reminder” or “Electronic Tax Return Reminder,” officials said. These include links to websites that look like IRS.gov but are not real IRS websites. When a user clicks to access files allegedly referring to his tax return, electronic return, or tax account, he accidentally downloads malicious software.

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Fraudsters can gain control of a computer or track every keystroke, receiving passwords and other sensitive data, officials warn.

“The IRS does not send emails about tax returns, tax refunds, or sensitive financial information,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig.

“This latest scheme is another reminder that tax fraud is a constant business for thieves. We urge you to remain alert at all times,” he added.

Officials said they worked with state tax authorities and the tax industry as a whole to combat identity fraud, but people still remain vulnerable to scammers when imposters send fake emails or pester them over the phone.

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It is important to remember that the IRS does not establish contacts with taxpayers via email, text messaging or social networks. Anyone who requests personal or financial information, such as PIN codes, passwords or account information on these channels, does not work in the IRS.

The IRS also does not require immediate payment using a specific method, such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or bank transfer. Instead, they will usually mail you an invoice.

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