Tax season should be about filing your return and planning for the year ahead—not worrying about fraud. Unfortunately, criminals pose as the IRS to steal sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank details, and passwords. Knowing how to spot and avoid these scams can help you protect your finances and personal data.

At Independent Bank, we're committed to helping you stay informed and protected against financial fraud. Let's break down three common IRS imposter scams—and how to spot and avoid them.

3 Common IRS Imposter Scams

Tax Collection Scam

In this scam, a fraudster calls claiming you owe back taxes and demanding immediate payment. They may:

  •  Threaten arrest, license suspension, or even deportation.
  • Insist you pay via prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, or cashier's checks.
  • Use aggressive tactics to intimidate you into compliance.

How to protect yourself:

  • Hang up immediately. The IRS never makes aggressive calls demanding payment.
  • Verify any tax debts directly—visit IRS.gov or call 800.829.1040.
  • Never make payments through prepaid cards, wire transfers, or gift cards—these are red flags.

IRS Verification Scam (Phishing Emails)

This scam involves receiving an official-looking email requesting that you verify personal details, such as your Social Security number or banking info.

  • The email may look official and contain the IRS logo.
  • It will ask you to click a link or download an attachment.
  • Scammers may claim that failing to respond will delay your tax refund.

How to protect yourself:

  • Never click links or download attachments from unexpected IRS emails.
  • Know that the IRS will never email you for sensitive information.
  • Report the scam by forwarding the email to phishing@irs.gov.

Tax Transcript Email Scam (Malware Attack)

A tax transcript summarizes your tax return for a given year, often used for mortgage or loan applications.

How the scam works:

  • Scammers pose as "IRS Online" and send an email with "Tax Transcript" in the subject line.
  • The email contains an attachment titled "Tax Account Transcript."
  • Opening the attachment installs malware that steals personal and financial information.

How to protect yourself:

  • Never open unexpected email attachments from "IRS Online."
  • Request official tax transcripts only at IRS.gov.
  • Delete suspicious emails immediately.

How to Protect Yourself from IRS Scams

  • Expect more scams during tax season. January through April is peak fraud time.
  • Hang up on threatening calls. The IRS will never call demanding payment.
  • Ignore payment requests via gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or wire transfers.
  • Beware of fake emails, texts, and social media messages. The IRS does not use these channels for official contact.
  • Watch for spoofed caller ID numbers. Scammers can make it appear like they're calling from a legitimate IRS number.

If you receive an IRS-related scam:

Learn more about Identity Theft Protection & Fraud Prevention

Got a Letter from the IRS? Here's How to Verify It

The IRS does send official notices by mail for tax verification, payment requests, and tax ID theft issues. If you receive a letter:

  • Check the IRS website (IRS.gov) to confirm it's legitimate.
  • Call the official IRS number (800.829.1040) to verify authenticity.
  • Watch for tax ID theft warning signs—if you can't file electronically because someone already used your Social Security number, report it immediately.

Learn What to Do If You're a Victim of Fraud

Stay Alert & Stay Safe

IRS scams are on the rise, but with awareness and vigilance, you can protect yourself from fraudsters. If you suspect a scam or need help safeguarding your financial information, contact i-bank today for expert guidance.