Tax season is not just about filing forms and waiting for refunds. It is also one of the busiest times of year for scammers. While you are focused on deadlines and deposits, fraudsters are focused on stealing personal information and money. The good news is that knowing what to look for can make all the difference.
At Michigan First, our top priority is protecting you and your money. We make substantial investments in resources to maintain the confidentiality and security of your personal information. Use the above tips to help keep yourself protected against fraud but know that fraud schemes are surfacing every day. Stay informed by visiting MichiganFirst.com/Security-Center and monitoring trends on the Federal Trade Commission website.
The “Your Refund Is Waiting” Text Scam
One of the most common scams starts with a text or email about your tax refund. These messages often appear to come from the Internal Revenue Service or a state tax agency. You might see a message saying your refund has been approved and asking you to click a link to verify your information or claim your deposit. That link usually leads to a fake website designed to collect your Social Security number, banking details, or login credentials. Some consumers have reported receiving texts claiming to be from “IRS E Statement” with a link to check their refund status, even if they had not filed yet. That alone is a red flag. The IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails asking for personal information or promising refunds through a link.Threatening Phone Calls About Back Taxes
Another common tactic is a phone call claiming you owe back taxes and must pay immediately to avoid penalties, lawsuits, or arrest. The caller may use an official sounding name or even spoof a legitimate phone number to seem credible. It is important to remember that the IRS does not demand immediate payment over the phone or request payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Official communication typically begins by mail. If someone pressures you to act right away, that urgency is often the scam.Fake Preparers and Identity Theft
Tax scams are not limited to texts and calls. Some involve fraudulent tax preparers who promise unusually large refunds. These individuals may file your return but refuse to sign it or provide proper credentials. Inflated or inaccurate returns can leave you responsible for penalties later. There is also tax identity theft, where someone files a return using your Social Security number before you do. You may only discover the issue when your legitimate return is rejected because one has already been submitted. Filing early and monitoring your credit report can help reduce this risk.How to Protect Yourself
Start by slowing down. Scammers rely on panic and quick decisions. Do not click links in unexpected messages. Instead, type official website addresses directly into your browser. Use strong, unique passwords for tax preparation accounts and enable multi factor authentication when available. Work with reputable tax professionals and always review your return before filing. If you receive a suspicious message, report it and delete it.At Michigan First, our top priority is protecting you and your money. We make substantial investments in resources to maintain the confidentiality and security of your personal information. Use the above tips to help keep yourself protected against fraud but know that fraud schemes are surfacing every day. Stay informed by visiting MichiganFirst.com/Security-Center and monitoring trends on the Federal Trade Commission website.