Tax season is a prime time for scammers to prey on unsuspecting taxpayers, and the IRS has once again issued its annual “Dirty Dozen” list to warn the public about the most common tax-related scams.
Released in late February 2025, this list highlights fraudulent schemes that could put your personal and financial information at risk.
From phishing emails to bogus tax refund offers, these scams are designed to trick people into giving away sensitive data. The IRS, along with state agencies and financial institutions, has been fighting fraud for years and has prevented billions of dollars in losses.
However, scammers are getting more sophisticated, making it crucial to stay informed and vigilant.
Phishing
Phishing remains one of the most dangerous scams during tax season. Scammers send fake emails pretending to be from the IRS, often using tactics like:
- Claiming you are eligible for a tax refund and need to “verify” your information
- Threatening legal action due to “unpaid taxes”
- Asking for personal details to “process” your tax return
These emails often include links to fraudulent websites that steal your login credentials or personal data. The IRS stresses that it never initiates contact with taxpayers via email, so if you receive one of these messages, do not click any links or provide any information.
Smishing
Similar to phishing, smishing uses text messages instead of emails. Scammers send alarming texts that claim:
- “Your tax account has been locked due to suspicious activity”
- “You are eligible for an unclaimed tax refund”
- “Verify your information to prevent penalties”
These messages often contain malicious links leading to fake IRS websites. The IRS advises taxpayers to ignore and delete such messages immediately. Never click on unknown links in unsolicited texts.
Stimulus Payment Scam
A new scam making rounds in 2025 is the fraudulent promise of a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment (stimulus check). Scammers send fake messages stating:
“You are eligible to receive an economic impact payment of $1,400. Please provide your personal information so we can deposit the amount in your bank account or send a paper check within 1 to 2 business days.”
The IRS has confirmed that all stimulus payments were issued automatically and do not require additional action. Any message asking for personal information in exchange for a payment is a scam.
Protecting Yourself
To stay safe from tax scams, follow these essential tips:
- Ignore unsolicited emails and texts from the IRS. The agency does not use these methods for official communication.
- Verify directly on the IRS website (www.irs.gov) instead of clicking on links in suspicious messages.
- Report scams by forwarding phishing emails to [email protected] and smishing texts to 7726 (SPAM).
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on financial and tax-related accounts.
- Stay informed by checking the IRS website regularly for scam alerts.
The IRS and its partners continue to fight against fraud, but taxpayers must also stay cautious. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stay alert, protect your information, and don’t let scammers take advantage of tax season.
FAQs
What is the IRS Dirty Dozen list?
The IRS Dirty Dozen is an annual list of the top tax scams to avoid.
How do scammers use phishing?
They send fake IRS emails to steal personal and financial information.
What is smishing?
Scammers send fraudulent IRS-related text messages with harmful links.
Is the $1,400 stimulus payment real?
Yes, but it was issued automatically. Any request for info is a scam.
How can I report an IRS scam?
Forward phishing emails to [email protected] and smishing texts to 7726.
