The IRS is cautioning taxpayers of a new scam with the promise of unclaimed refunds.
This phishing scam requests sensitive information, including a photo of your driver’s license, your Social Security number and banking details, in order to steal your identity.
Here are the warning signs:
Suspicious mailer. The scam is sent via a delivery service in a cardboard envelope printed on IRS letterhead. It contains an “important notice” regarding an unclaimed refund. The letter prompts you to fill out personal details and submit it to a filing agent in order to obtain your refund.
Poor grammar, inconsistent capitalization, mixture of fonts. For example, the letter requests: “A Clear Phone of Your Driver’s License That Clearly Displays All Four (4) Angles, Taken in a Place With Good Lighting.”
Awkwardly worded phrases. Poorly written directions include: You’ll Need to Get This to Get Your Refunds After Filing. These Must Be Given to a Filing Agent Who Will Help You Submit Your Unclaimed Property Claim. Once You Send All The Information Please Try to Be Checking Your Email for Response From The Agents Thanks”
Stopping financial fraud in its tracks
If you receive a suspicious letter, do not contact the number on the letter. Instead, report the potential scam to phishing@irs.gov. You may also call the IRS’s main phone number at (800) 829-1040.
If you have questions about protecting your own or your business’ identity, reach out to the knowledgeable CPAs at Magone & Company. Our extensive fraud protection expertise can help keep your personal information under wraps. Give us a call today at (973) 301-2300.