Identifying Fake IRS Letters and Emails: Steps to Take if a Scam is Suspected

Anyone who receives an email or letter claiming to be from the IRS should be highly suspicious. The IRS does not send emails to the public and is not likely to initiate contact through unsolicited letters. If you receive such correspondence and are unsure of its legitimacy, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself.

Common Errors to Watch For

The most common errors that indicate a letter or email is a scam include:

Incorrect spelling or grammar Syntax errors that make the message unclear or confusing References to features or procedures that the IRS does not use (e.g., immediate payment demands, portal logons) Threats that do not come from official IRS procedures or language Hyperlinks that do not lead to official IRS websites

Scammers often create these errors to steer unsuspecting recipients away from reporting the scam and into complying with their demands. They may also use legitimate IRS language to make the letter or email seem more authentic, but never hesitate to double-check the details. If you find any discrepancies, seek help from a trusted tax preparer or the IRS directly.

Scary and Threatening Tactics

Scam emails and letters are designed to scare and manipulate you into taking action quickly. They may:

Threaten to take legal action or impose fines if you do not comply immediately Imply that your sensitive information (such as Social Security numbers) has been compromised Demand payment through non-official or unfamiliar methods (e.g., cryptocurrencies, wire transfers)

Real communication from the IRS typically provides specific contact information and instructions for how to respond, often with deadlines for compliance. Stay calm, read carefully, and seek advice from professionals if you are unsure.

Identifying Suspicious Links and Contacts

Scammers often use links and phone numbers to trick you into providing sensitive information or making payments:

Links in emails may direct you to phishing websites that ask for personal and financial information. Phone numbers may direct you to call centers staffed by scammers who will pressure you to provide sensitive data. Fake portal logons may require you to enter detailed personal information, including passwords and banking details.

Always verify the authenticity of any links or phone numbers by cross-referencing them with official IRS sources. Never use the contact information provided in suspicious correspondence. Instead, find the official IRS website or contact information and reach out from there.

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam

If you suspect that a letter or email is a scam, here are some steps you can take:

Do not click on any links or provide personal information. Take the letter to a tax preparation firm or directly to an IRS office to confirm its authenticity. Report the scam to the IRS at or the FTC Identity Theft Reporting Site. Consider consulting a lawyer or tax professional who can review the document and give you legal advice.

By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself from identity theft and financial loss.

Conclusion

Remember that the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers through unsolicited emails or letters. Always approach correspondence with caution and verify its authenticity before taking any action. If you suspect a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities and seek professional advice to safeguard your personal and financial information.