IRS Continues to Warn Taxpayers About COVID-19 Related Scams

Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, the IRS Criminal Investigation Devision has uncovered a variety of frauds. Here are some types of scams they say to look out for, as well as tips to avoid falling victim.
A Second Stimulus Package
Some people have been contacted concerning a second stimulus package. As of this writing, no second stimulus has been approved by Congress. Thus, if you are asked to provide personal information or to pay money to receive a second stimulus check, decline and hang up.
Phishing Scams
The IRS has witnessed an upsurge in phishing scams. These schemes use phone calls, emails, letters, texts, and links that appear to be from a legitimate company, the IRS, or other government agency asking you to provide sensitive information such as bank account details or Social Security numbers. Don’t fall for these scams.
Fake Charities
These are solicitations from supposed tax-exempt organizations for donations to help those living in areas affected heavily by COVID-19. To ensure such a request is legitimate, get their tax-exempt number and check on the entity’s status via the IRS website before making any financial commitment. If they refuse to provide a tax-exempt number, end your conversation.
Fake Contact Tracers
Some scammers fraudulently pose as contact tracers to steal your identity, money or both. Real contact tracers may ask for your name and address, health information, and places and people you have visited. However, they will never request money or your Social Security number. Do not click on links or download anything sent from an alleged contact tracer.
Protect Yourself
• Do not respond to calls, texts or emails from unknown phone numbers.
• Never share personal or financial information via phone, emails, or text messages.
• Keep in mind that the IRS will never call you to ask for personal information or money.
• Do not click on links in text messages allegedly from the IRS.
• Never respond to a purported contact from the IRS that says the government overpaid you on your stimulus check and requires reimbursement.
Report any COVID-19 related scams to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) at (866) 720-5721 or submit a report to https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office.
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