Scammers are increasingly targeting taxpayers through sophisticated phishing schemes that impersonate the IRS and Customs agencies. Recent alerts from the IRS highlight a concerning trend of text message scams offering fake $1,400 stimulus checks, designed to steal personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims. The IRS has explicitly warned that they never initiate contact with taxpayers via email, text message, or social media platforms, especially regarding tax refunds or requests for personal information.
These deceptive messages often create a false sense of urgency, compelling recipients to click on malicious links or provide sensitive data. According to the Better Business Bureau, approximately 40 reports of the stimulus check text scam have been recorded in 2025 alone. The IRS has noted a significant increase in these texting scams, prompting them to issue specific guidelines for reporting suspicious messages.
If you receive suspicious IRS-related communications, you can forward text messages to 7726 (SPAM) and report phishing emails to phishing@irs.gov. Never respond to unsolicited messages asking for personal or financial details. Remember that legitimate government agencies have established protocols for contacting citizens that don’t involve unexpected texts or emails demanding immediate action.
How These Scams Work
Scammers are getting more creative by the day. These latest IRS and Customs-related scams are particularly dangerous because they prey on fear, urgency, and confusion. Victims often receive text messages, emails, or even phone calls that look and sound completely legitimate. The fraudsters use official logos, realistic language, and even spoofed phone numbers to appear credible.
Here’s a common scenario: you receive a text message saying you owe money to the IRS or there’s a customs fee on a package that you need to pay right away. The message includes a link that looks like it belongs to an official government website. If you click on it, you’re taken to a page that asks for personal details, credit card numbers, or Social Security information.
And just like that, the scammer has what they need to steal your identity or drain your bank account.
Common Types of Messages Being Sent
These scams often fall into a few common categories, but they all rely on one thing: making you panic so you act without thinking.
Here are actual examples of scam messages people are receiving right now:
Fake IRS Refund Notifications
IRS Notification:
You are eligible for a tax refund of $1,269.45. Click the link below to submit your refund request:
[irs-gov-refund.com/verify]
This message tricks you by promising a refund, but the link leads to a phishing site that steals your personal information.
Fake IRS Debt Collection Alerts
Internal Revenue Service Alert
You have an outstanding balance of $2,570. Failure to pay will result in legal action. Make payment now to avoid arrest:
[irs-payments-now.com]
This one uses fear tactics—mentioning arrest and legal action—to pressure you into acting fast.
Customs Package Release Scam
US Customs & Border Protection:
A package addressed to you is being held. Customs fee of $72.50 is required to release the shipment. Pay immediately to avoid return:
[us-customs-clearance.com]
Scammers hope you’ll be curious or concerned enough about the mystery package to pay the fake fee.
Fake Toll Violation Fees (Related)
Toll Road Violation Notice
You have unpaid toll fees totaling $14.75. Resolve this now to avoid penalties:
[pay-your-toll.com]
This variation exploits people’s busy lives by hitting them with supposed toll violations that they may not immediately question.
Why These Scams Are So Effective
These scams are effective because they hit the sweet spot of fear and urgency. Most people panic when they hear they owe money to the IRS or customs, or they’re about to be penalized. And with tax season in full swing or more people shopping online, these messages seem timely and believable.
Scammers also use spoofed phone numbers that appear as if they’re coming from legitimate agencies. Some even add official-looking logos and headers to their texts and emails, making them even more convincing.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message
If you get one of these messages, don’t engage. Here’s a quick action plan:
- Don’t click any links.
Even opening the link can expose you to malware or phishing pages. - Don’t respond.
Scammers thrive on interaction. Replying gives them confirmation that your number or email is active. - Verify independently.
If you’re worried the message might be legit, go directly to the official IRS or Customs websites. Call their official numbers—not the ones in the message. - Report the scam.
You can report IRS-related scams to phishing@irs.gov and customs scams to local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). - Block the number and delete the message.
Don’t keep it sitting in your inbox. Block it, delete it, and move on.
How To Spot a Scam Message Instantly
Here are some red flags to watch for:
- Sense of urgency.
“Pay immediately” or “Action required within 24 hours” are classic pressure tactics. - Strange links.
Any link that doesn’t match the official government website should be avoided. - Poor grammar or odd formatting.
Scammers are getting better, but they still often make small mistakes. - Unexpected messages.
The IRS and US Customs rarely, if ever, initiate contact by text message.
How To Protect Yourself Going Forward
- Use spam filters on your phone and email.
- Enable two-factor authentication on your accounts.
- Monitor your credit for any unusual activity.
- Stay informed about the latest scams by visiting government websites or reputable news sources.
Final Thoughts
Scammers aren’t slowing down anytime soon. These fake IRS and Customs scams are just the latest tricks in their ever-growing playbook. Staying alert, informed, and cautious is your best defense.
If you’ve already clicked on a link or provided information, contact your bank immediately, change your passwords, and consider freezing your credit.
Key Takeaways
- The IRS never initiates contact through texts, emails, or social media to request personal or financial information.
- Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) and report phishing emails to phishing@irs.gov to help authorities combat these scams.
- Be wary of messages creating urgency or offering unexpected benefits like stimulus checks, as these are common tactics used by scammers.
Understanding IRS and Customs Scams
Tax season brings a surge in fraudulent activities targeting unsuspecting taxpayers. Scammers use sophisticated techniques to impersonate government agencies like the IRS and Customs to steal personal information and money.
The Basics of IRS Scams
IRS scams continue to evolve with technology. The IRS has identified several schemes in its 2025 “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams, including email phishing and text message fraud. These messages often claim to offer tax credits or stimulus payments of $1,400.
Scammers typically create urgent situations, demanding immediate action from recipients. They use official-looking emails or texts with fraudulent links claiming to be IRS websites or tools.
Common IRS Scam Tactics:
- Threatening phone calls demanding immediate payment
- Texts or emails about “unclaimed refunds” or “stimulus checks”
- Messages requiring verification of personal information
- Fake IRS websites that steal login credentials
The IRS emphasizes they will never initiate contact with taxpayers through email, text messages, or social media to request personal or financial information.
Customs Message Frauds
Customs scams operate similarly to IRS fraud but focus on international shipments and duty payments. Scammers pose as Customs and Border Protection agents, claiming packages are held up due to unpaid duties or paperwork issues.
These fraudsters send text messages or emails stating that a package cannot be delivered until additional fees are paid. They often include tracking numbers and official-looking logos to appear legitimate.
Red Flags of Customs Scams:
- Unexpected messages about packages you didn’t order
- Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
- Poor grammar or spelling in official communications
- Suspicious links or attachments in messages
Recipients should verify any customs notifications by contacting shipping companies directly using phone numbers from their official websites, not those provided in suspicious messages.
Common Techniques Used by Scammers
Tax scammers employ increasingly sophisticated methods to steal personal information and money from unsuspecting victims. They adapt their tactics seasonally, with many schemes peaking during tax filing season when people are most vulnerable.
Phishing Emails and Smishing Scams
Scammers frequently use phishing emails and text messages (smishing) that impersonate legitimate organizations like the IRS. These communications typically contain urgent language claiming issues with tax returns or refunds that require immediate action.
According to the IRS’s 2025 Dirty Dozen list released on February 27, fraudsters send messages designed to trick, scare, or surprise recipients into responding without thinking critically. They often include convincing logos and official-looking formatting.
Common phishing tactics include:
- Emails claiming you’re eligible for an additional refund
- Texts about economic impact payments requiring verification
- Messages threatening audit or legal action if you don’t respond
- Links to fake websites mimicking IRS.gov
These messages typically ask victims to click suspicious links or provide sensitive information like Social Security numbers, banking details, or passwords. Remember that the IRS will never initiate contact through email, text, or social media.
Malware Attacks
Cybercriminals use tax-related lures to distribute malware that can compromise personal information and financial security. These attacks often begin with seemingly legitimate communications.
Common malware distribution methods include:
- Attachments in emails claiming to contain tax forms or refund information
- Fake tax preparation software downloads that install keyloggers
- Drive-by downloads from compromised tax-related websites
- QR codes in emails or texts that lead to malicious sites
Once installed, malware can secretly monitor keystrokes, access stored passwords, or encrypt files for ransom. Some sophisticated malware can even access webcams and microphones.
The most dangerous aspect of tax-related malware is its ability to operate undetected for extended periods. This gives criminals ample time to collect sensitive information and potentially commit identity theft or financial fraud.
Bogus Tax Avoidance Promises
Scammers frequently promote schemes promising to help taxpayers avoid or reduce their tax obligations through questionable or illegal methods. The IRS specifically highlights these schemes in their 2025 Dirty Dozen list.
These scams often involve:
- Creating fake W-2 forms with false income information
- Claiming deductions or credits taxpayers aren’t eligible for
- Promoting “secret” tax loopholes only available through paid services
- Offering unrealistic promises of massive refunds
Promoters of these schemes might present themselves as tax professionals with insider knowledge. They often target vulnerable groups including seniors, low-income individuals, and non-native English speakers.
Falling for these scams can result in significant penalties, interest charges, and potential criminal prosecution. The IRS warns that taxpayers remain legally responsible for their returns even when prepared by someone else.
Fake Charities and Economic Impostors
Scammers create fake charities or impersonate government economic assistance programs to exploit people’s generosity and financial vulnerability.
During tax season and following natural disasters, fake charity scams proliferate. These operations:
- Use names similar to legitimate organizations
- Create convincing but fraudulent websites
- Pressure potential donors for immediate contributions
- Request payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
Similarly, economic impact payment scams target people expecting government assistance. Fraudsters pretend to represent government agencies and claim they can expedite payments for a fee or need verification of personal information.
The BBB warns that recent scams have targeted recipients of $1,400 stimulus checks through fake texts. These messages typically contain links to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal and financial information from victims seeking economic relief.
Recognizing the Red Flags
Tax scammers constantly develop new tactics to steal personal information and money. Knowing how to identify these deceptive attempts can protect individuals from becoming victims of fraud during tax season.
Unsolicited IRS Communications
The IRS typically initiates contact with taxpayers through regular mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. They will not reach out via email, text message, or social media to request personal or financial information.
If someone receives an unexpected email claiming to be from the IRS, this is almost certainly a scam. These phishing attempts often contain urgent language about refunds or penalties to create panic.
The IRS reported a significant increase in texting scams in 2024-2025. These messages frequently include fake links or phone numbers designed to collect personal information.
Legitimate IRS notices will include a notice or letter number (like CP01 or LTR987) in the upper right-hand corner. If this identifying information is missing, the communication is likely fraudulent.
Suspicious Requests for Information
Scammers frequently ask for sensitive personal details that the IRS would never request via electronic communication. This includes:
- Social Security numbers
- Credit/debit card numbers
- Bank account information
- PINs or passwords
Legitimate IRS representatives will never demand immediate payment during a first contact. They also won’t threaten to bring in law enforcement for non-payment.
Be wary of communications containing spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, or unusual phrasing. The IRS maintains professional communication standards in all official correspondence.
Scammers may claim you’re eligible for a large refund or special credit you didn’t request. In 2023, more than $5 billion was lost to tax-related scams, with many involving fake refund promises.
Unusual Payment Methods
The IRS doesn’t demand specific payment methods. Be suspicious of anyone claiming to represent the IRS who requires:
- Gift cards
- Prepaid debit cards
- Wire transfers
- Cryptocurrency payments
- Payment apps like Venmo or Cash App
Tax scammers often create a false sense of urgency, claiming immediate payment is required to avoid arrest or other penalties. The real IRS provides multiple payment options and time to appeal.
The IRS will never ask for automatic payments to be set up through a link sent via email or text. All legitimate IRS payment options are outlined on the official IRS.gov website.
Remember that the IRS provides taxpayers with rights to question and appeal amounts owed. Any collector demanding payment without allowing these rights is not representing the IRS.
Protecting Your Personal Information
In today’s tax environment, safeguarding personal information is critical to prevent identity theft and financial fraud. The IRS has identified numerous scams targeting taxpayers through phishing emails, fake text messages, and impersonation schemes.
Safe Practices for IRS Online Accounts
Creating and maintaining a secure IRS online account requires vigilance. Taxpayers should use strong, unique passwords containing a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters for their IRS accounts.
Multi-factor authentication adds an essential layer of protection. When the IRS offers this feature, taxpayers should enable it immediately to prevent unauthorized access.
Be wary of emails claiming to be from the IRS. The agency typically does not initiate contact with taxpayers via email, text messages, or social media channels.
Check the URL before logging in to any IRS-related website. Legitimate IRS websites always begin with “irs.gov” – not variations like “irs.com” or “irs-gov.com.”
Log out completely after each session with your IRS account, especially when using public computers or networks.
Guarding Your Social Security Number
Your Social Security Number (SSN) is the key piece of information scammers need for tax fraud and identity theft. Only provide your SSN when absolutely necessary and to verified, legitimate organizations.
Question any request for your SSN. Ask why it’s needed, how it will be protected, and what happens if you don’t provide it. Many organizations that ask for SSNs can use alternative identification methods.
Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet or purse. Store it in a secure location like a safe deposit box or home safe.
Shred documents containing personal information before disposal. Tax forms, financial statements, and medical records often contain sensitive data that identity thieves can exploit.
Monitor your credit reports regularly for suspicious activity. You’re entitled to free annual reports from each major credit bureau through AnnualCreditReport.com.
Consider placing a credit freeze if you suspect your information has been compromised. This restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name.
Official IRS Procedures and Verification
Understanding how the IRS legitimately communicates with taxpayers is crucial for identifying scams. The Internal Revenue Service follows specific protocols when contacting individuals about tax matters, stimulus payments, or refunds.
Real IRS Processes for Tax Returns and Refunds
The IRS processes tax returns through established channels that prioritize security and privacy. Most communications about tax refunds occur through official mail on IRS letterhead, not via text messages or social media.
For stimulus payments like the $1,400 checks mentioned in recent scams, the IRS deposits funds directly into bank accounts or mails paper checks to eligible taxpayers. The agency never requires individuals to “verify” personal information through unsolicited communications to receive these payments.
Tax refunds typically process within 21 days for electronically filed returns. The IRS provides legitimate tracking tools on IRS.gov, including “Where’s My Refund?” and “Get My Payment” for stimulus checks.
The recovery rebate credit is claimed on tax returns, not through separate applications requiring personal information submission.
Legitimate Methods of IRS Contact
The IRS primarily initiates contact with taxpayers through official mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. They do not begin communications through:
- Text messages
- Social media platforms
- Emails (except in very specific circumstances)
- Phone calls demanding immediate payment
If the IRS needs to conduct an in-person meeting, they provide advance notice through mail and never demand immediate payment using specific methods like gift cards or wire transfers.
IRS representatives carry two forms of official identification: a pocket commission and a Personal Identity Verification credential. Taxpayers have the right to see both forms of ID when meeting with someone claiming to be from the IRS.
Verifying Authenticity
When receiving communications claiming to be from the IRS, verification is essential. Taxpayers can confirm legitimacy by:
- Checking official channels – Visit IRS.gov directly (not through links in messages)
- Calling verified numbers – Contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 to confirm if they’re trying to reach you
- Using secure portals – Access your tax account through the authenticated IRS.gov website
The IRS never requests personal or financial information through email, texts, or social media. Any message asking for Social Security numbers, banking details, or passwords should be treated with extreme suspicion.
Forward suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov and report IRS impersonation scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at TIGTA.gov.
Victim Response and Reporting Scams
If you’ve encountered a suspicious message claiming to be from the IRS or offering a stimulus check, knowing how to respond appropriately is crucial for protecting your personal information. Taking immediate action can help prevent identity theft and financial loss.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
First, never engage with suspicious communications. Don’t click on links, download attachments, or respond to messages that seem questionable. The IRS primarily contacts taxpayers through postal mail, not via text, email, or phone calls demanding immediate payment.
Save the suspicious communication for reporting purposes. Screenshots of texts or copies of emails provide valuable evidence when filing reports.
Contact the actual IRS directly through their official phone number (800-829-1040) to verify any purported communication. The agency’s representatives can confirm whether they actually sent you a message.
If you’ve already shared personal information, visit IdentityTheft.gov to create a recovery plan. Monitor your accounts closely for unusual activity and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.
Reporting Procedures
Report IRS-related scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at 800-366-4484 or through their website. Include the sender’s information and the full content of the message in your report.
For text scams specifically, the IRS recommends forwarding suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM), which helps mobile carriers identify and block these numbers.
Submit phishing emails claiming to be from the IRS to phishing@irs.gov. Copy the entire email and include the sender’s address rather than forwarding it, as this preserves valuable header information.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Their database helps law enforcement track and combat scam patterns.
Report scams to the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker to alert others in your community about current threats.
Staying Informed About Current Scams
Keeping up with the latest scam tactics is essential for protecting personal information and finances. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) serves as a valuable resource, tracking and reporting scams like the fake IRS stimulus check messages that have affected approximately 40 people as of 2025.
Tax scams evolve constantly, with criminals adapting their techniques to seem more believable. Recent schemes include text messages claiming recipients qualify for a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment from the IRS, complete with links to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal data.
IRS Commissioner Rettig emphasizes that “the best offense is a good defense” when it comes to these scams. The real IRS never initiates contact with taxpayers via text message or email to request personal or financial information.
Common warning signs of IRS scams include:
- Messages about “unclaimed refunds” requiring immediate action
- Texts offering an “offer in compromise” that seems too good to be true
- Links to websites that don’t end with .gov
- Requests for gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or wire transfers
To stay protected, regularly check official sources like IRS.gov for alerts about new scams. The BBB website also provides up-to-date information on emerging fraud tactics targeting consumers.
Reporting suspicious messages helps authorities combat these schemes. Forward suspicious texts to the IRS at 202-552-1226 and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission if you’ve been targeted.
Frequently Asked Questions
IRS-related scams continue to evolve, targeting unsuspecting taxpayers through various communication channels. Understanding how the IRS legitimately operates can help individuals identify and avoid these sophisticated scams.
How can one authenticate an email purportedly from the IRS?
The IRS generally does not initiate contact with taxpayers via email to request personal or financial information. Any email claiming to be from the IRS and asking for sensitive data should be treated with extreme caution.
Legitimate IRS emails for official business would typically be a follow-up to a conversation already in progress. The agency would never ask for personal information via email.
Taxpayers should check the sender’s email address carefully for misspellings or domains that don’t end in .gov, which are clear indicators of phishing attempts.
What protocols does the IRS follow when contacting individuals about taxes owed?
The IRS typically initiates contact with taxpayers about unpaid taxes through regular mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. They will send multiple notices before attempting other contact methods.
If the IRS needs to visit a taxpayer at home or business, they will almost always send several notices through mail first. IRS representatives will also carry two forms of official identification.
The agency does not demand immediate payment using specific methods such as prepaid debit cards, gift cards, or wire transfers. They always provide taxpayers with the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
Are there distinguishing features of IRS scam texts to be aware of?
IRS scam texts often create false urgency, claiming immediate action is needed to avoid penalties or arrest. This pressure tactic is designed to make recipients act without thinking.
These texts may contain spelling or grammatical errors that legitimate IRS communications would not include. The messages frequently include suspicious links that lead to fake websites designed to steal personal information.
According to recent alerts, many scam texts specifically mention “$1,400 stimulus payments” or “tax credits” to lure victims into responding or clicking on malicious links.
Can the IRS initiate contact via text message for official matters?
The IRS does not use text messages to discuss tax debts, refunds, or sensitive financial matters with taxpayers. Text messages are not an official communication channel for the agency.
If someone receives a text claiming to be from the IRS, particularly one requesting personal or financial information, it should be considered fraudulent. The IRS has explicitly warned about the significant increase in texting scams.
Taxpayers who receive suspicious IRS-related text messages should forward them to the IRS at 202-552-1226, which helps the agency disrupt these scams and protect others.
What information is included in the IRS Dirty Dozen list?
The IRS Dirty Dozen list for 2025 identifies twelve pervasive tax scams that pose significant threats to taxpayers. Email phishing schemes remain prominent on this list, with scammers sending deceptive messages to steal personal information.
The list highlights various social media scams where fraudsters create fake IRS accounts to contact taxpayers about non-existent bills, grants, or refunds. Text message scams promoting fake tax credits or stimulus payments also feature prominently.
The Dirty Dozen serves as an educational tool to help taxpayers recognize and avoid common tax scams that evolve each year. The IRS updates this list annually to reflect new and emerging threats.
What steps should be taken upon receiving an unexpected IRS notification?
Verify the communication’s authenticity by contacting the IRS directly through official channels. Taxpayers can call 800-829-1040 to confirm whether the IRS is actually trying to reach them.
Never click on links or download attachments from suspicious emails or texts. These often contain malware designed to steal personal information from devices.
Report suspected scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at TIGTA.gov and forward suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov. Reporting helps authorities track and shut down scam operations.
