The Internal Revenue Service and its Security Summit partners issued a news release, “Security Summit warns of new IRS impersonation email scam” warning taxpayers and tax professionals about a new IRS impersonation scam being distributed by email. The email subject line varies, but recent examples have used the phrase “Automatic Income Tax Reminder” or “Electronic Tax Return Reminder.”
The email contains links to IRS.gov-like website with information pretending to be about the taxpayer’s refund, electronic return or tax account. The email contains a “temporary password” or “one-time password” to access files for submitting the refund. But a malicious file is really being downloaded that could allow someone else control of your computer.
Remember the IRS does not send unsolicited emails and never email taxpayers about status of refunds. Generally, the IRS will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes.
Taxpayers should report all unsolicited email claiming to be from the IRS or IRS-related function to phishing@irs.gov.
We recommend taxpayers review security tips from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency within the Department of Homeland Security on “Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks.”
Bookmark Alabama Cybersecurity website to stay informed on the latest issues and useful tips to stay safe online.