Tax Scams to Watch For This Tax Season

As tax season rolls around, more people are getting calls and messages that sound like they’re from the IRS or HMRC. But scammers are getting smarter—using real-sounding names, fake reference numbers, and even background noise to make their calls seem official. Don’t trust just the number on the screen. If you get a call claiming to be from a tax agency, check it out by going straight to the official site or calling the agency using a number you know is real. These frauds don’t just want your money—they want your personal details, which can be used to open new accounts or run up charges in your name. The truth is, real tax offices don’t rush you, don’t ask for sensitive data over the phone, and don’t pressure you to act right away.

If you’re being asked to send money through gift cards, wire transfers, or money gram services, that’s a red flag. Those methods don’t leave a clear trail, and if you end up paying, it’s nearly impossible to get your money back. Legitimate agencies use secure online portals or direct debit. And if you’re older, new to a country, or not tech-savvy, you’re more likely to be targeted—because you might not recognize a scam when it happens. The language barrier, confusion about procedures, or fear of missing a deadline can all make you more vulnerable.

How to Spot and Avoid Tax Scams

• Impersonation Tactics: Scammers pretend to be tax agents using official titles and fake reference numbers. They might even mimic the sounds of a real call center to sound authentic. Always double-check by visiting the agency’s official website or calling a known, trusted number.
• Urgent Demands & Threats: Scammers create panic by saying you’ll face fines or legal action if you don’t act fast. Real tax offices don’t threaten penalties or demand immediate action—there’s always time to review and correct mistakes.
• Unusual Payment Methods: Requests for payments via gift cards, Western Union, or MoneyGram are almost always scams. These methods don’t leave a trace and make recovery nearly impossible. Real tax services use secure online systems or direct debit.
• Elderly and Immigrants at Higher Risk: Older adults and newcomers to a country are more likely to fall for scams due to less familiarity with tax systems or digital tools. Language barriers and confusion about procedures can make it harder to spot a scam.

If you get a call asking for personal or financial details—especially one that sounds urgent—report it right away to the IRS or HMRC and local law enforcement. The sooner you act, the better chance you have of stopping a scam before it goes any further. Stay sharp. Stay skeptical. And always verify before you give anything out.