Scam targeting deaf and hard of hearing

The IRS is warning taxpayers of a new scam uses video relay services (VRS) to specifically target those who are deaf or who are hard of hearing.

Just like any other phone scam, it is important not to provide a caller financial or personal information if the source is not trusted, and be certain to confirm their identity. Do not automatically trust calls made through VRS because interpreters do not screen calls for validity.

These callers are aggressive in their attempt to obtain information illegally. They often urge prompt action, and if you refuse, they can become hostile or threatening.

Another ploy is to inform taxpayers they have a refund and personal information is required to verify the refund before sending. Scams occur year around. However, the calls increase before the tax deadline, which is April 18 this year.

Other scams to look out for

Email scams are on the rise. In 2016, the IRS documented nearly a 400 percent increase in phishing and malware scams. The emails can often appear official, but the seek to steal personal information that can lead to identity theft. Some taxpayers have reported similar scams via text messages.

Avoid links to bogus websites that work to steal information that can be used to file false tax returns. These sites may also contain malware that can infect a computer, and then record keystrokes to gain further information such as passwords.

Some scammers are posing as Taxpayer Advocacy Panel and sending emails, and others are targeting students claiming that individuals need to pay a fake “Federal Student Tax.”

Here are some red flags that a call is actually a scam:

• The individual claiming to be an IRS agent requires payment without the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
• If the caller asks for debit or credit card numbers, it is a scam.
• Be aware of any demands for immediate payment in a specific way such as a prepaid debit card or wire transfer because the IRS will not call taxpayers without first sending a letter.
• If the caller threatens to involve law enforcement on behalf of the IRS, then hang up because that is not how the IRS will interact with a taxpayer.

If you think someone has tried to scam you, please report it by emailing phishing@irs.gov or call 800-366-4484. You can also call us at 844-841-9857 and let us know so that we may share it with our clients and employees.