Emails from the I.R.S.

Even the I.R.S. is subject to phishing scams and I’m not sure why some fall for it, but they do.  So what happens when you get an email or letter from the I.R.S. saying you are due a refund? 

Sandy Botkin, CPA and Attorney says this:

Folks are receiving letters or emails with the IRS / Treasury department logo informing them that they may be owed a refund. In order to obtain this refund, they have to prove that they are the right person by confirming certain personal information such as social security number, mother’s maiden name, address etc.  To date, IRS has identified as many as 1500 different phishing scams

Elaboration: IRS will never call you or write you asking for this type of personal information. You should never provide it to anyone by phone, letter or email. If you get an email requesting this type of information allegedly from the IRS, forward the email to phishing@irs.gov

To further validate this information, I asked my sister.  She was an employee of the I.R.S. for approximately 20 years (Manager of training for data entry personnel – no she can not answer tax questions or help you if you are audited).  When I asked her if the I.R.S. sends out emails or letters asking people to verify their personal data, she looked at me like I had lost my mind.  She said something like, “Are you nuts?  The I.R.S. already knows everything there is to know about you.  They don’t need confirmation.”

Please check the brief article posted on the I.R.S. site for more information.

Protect Yourself from and Report Suspicious E-Mails or Phishing Schemes.

AND DO NOT EVER, I repeat, DO NOT EVER give someone such private information as your social security number or Mother’s Maiden name via telephone, email or letter.  This information also applies to emails, letters or calls you might receive about any Economic Tax Stimulus rebate.

CALL your local IRS if in doubt.

~Jennifer
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