With increases and advancements in technology, identity theft is becoming more and more common. In fact, there is a new IRS impersonation scam currently spreading by email that we want to make sure you’re aware of.
Scammers posing as the IRS have been sending out emails with subject lines such as “Electronic Tax Return Reminder” or “Automatic Income Tax Reminder.” In this type of impersonation scam, known as phishing, the scammer’s goal is for the target to open a malware-filled file contained in the email, which they can use to discover your passwords and other personal information by tracking your typing.
This is a variation on a tactic scammers have commonly used, but criminals are always tweaking their methods to try to trick you into giving them access to your information. Always be cautious about opening links and attachments in emails you receive, and if you receive an email with a subject similar to the ones shown above, trash it.
Please keep in mind that the IRS will never initiate a conversation through email. They also will not contact you via phone call, text message, or social media. The IRS will send you a printed notice by mail if they ever need to contact you regarding your taxes. If you are unfortunately caught in a phishing trap, the best course of action is to contact the IRS, disconnect the affected device from the internet, run a scan for any issues or malware, and check your accounts to ensure that everything is secure.
Learning the warning signs and precautions is a good way to help protect your personal information from an attack. If you have any further questions about these phishing scams or about your taxes, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Ryder & Company is located in West Lawn, PA and offers a variety of accounting services, part-time CFO services, payroll preparation, and much more! We also offer tax preparation for individuals, as well as businesses and nonprofit entities. We assist many individuals and businesses in and around Wyomissing, Exeter, and Reading.