Tax Scams
A strong country is built by responsible citizens — and part of that responsibility includes filing taxes on time. Unfortunately, with tax season also comes a spike in tax scams. Cybercriminals use this period to deceive innocent taxpayers into handing over money, credentials, and sensitive personal information.
Major Forms of Tax Scams
- Fraudulent Tax Preparers: Some unethical “tax professionals” use false information to inflate refunds or steal personal data.
- Phishing Attacks: Fake emails, websites, and ads that impersonate legitimate businesses to collect your information — often leading to identity theft.
- Impersonation Phone Calls: Scammers pretend to be government tax authorities, threatening arrest, deportation, or heavy fines unless you pay immediately.
- Tax Identity Theft: Criminals file fake tax returns in your name to claim refunds before you can file legitimately.
⚠️ Caution: Government agencies never demand immediate payment over the phone or email. If you receive such communication, it’s almost certainly a scam.
How to Avoid Tax Scams
- File your taxes early to prevent criminals from using your details first.
- Double-check all sources before giving out personal information.
- Always use a secure internet connection for online tax filing.
- If filing offline, prepare and submit your return personally instead of relying on unknown individuals.
Staying vigilant during tax season not only protects your finances but also upholds your responsibility as a citizen. Scammers thrive on urgency and fear — slow down, verify, and take control of your own tax process.