Tax Debt Solutions Blog

Tax Relief: Don’t Get ‘Fished’ Out By A Phishing Tax Scam

The I.R.S. wants "phishers of men" BADLY. Phishing tax scams for just ONE YEAR totaled over 33,000. The dirty criminals used more than 1,500 different tax scams to cheat innocent tax payers out of their money, identity and basically, their most valued information. Phishing is a tactic used over the internet and is usually done through e-mail. Scammers send e-mails out to unsuspecting victims claiming to be almost any person, business or agency just to get vital information. And it works too! Phishing Scammers have even used the name of the I.R.S. to obtain information they then use to take money from account and numerous other ‘evil deeds.' The I.R.S. does not send e-mail to anyone for ANY reason! So just ‘don't' fall prey to anyone claiming to be anyone by internet e-mail unless you call and verify the authenticity for yourself!

Don't be ‘Hooked'

One BIG phishing scam involves telling people about the economic stimulus plan and its rebate. Nothing draws out the fool in a person more than thinking they have some free money coming! But don't fall for it...getting the stimulus payment is as easy as filing a simple return and going directly to the source, the I.R.S. The I.R.S. has a special website for forwarding any communication that is allegedly from them. You may really have a stimulus rebate coming, but if you fall for these tricksters e-mails you will pay more than you will ever get.

Another phishing scam that can get you into hot water involves believing certain e-mail or phone solicitors can lower your taxes owed or eliminate them completely...usually by making you believe certain facts are true that aren't. BEWARE...these ‘scams' can cost YOU $5,000 in penalties from the I.R.S itself!