As Americans rush to submit their 2024 tax returns by the April 15 deadline, tax season has once again become a prime opportunity for scammers. With a rise in IRS-related scams and the misuse of artificial intelligence tools by criminals, consumers are increasingly at risk of losing their personal and financial information.
According to cybersecurity firm Guardio, the number of IRS-related scam messages soared by 77 percent in January alone, highlighting a surge in fraudulent texts and emails impersonating the tax agency. These messages frequently promise substantial refunds or threaten legal action to lure taxpayers into clicking on malicious links.
Additionally, concerns are being raised about whether the IRS is adequately prepared to combat these threats. Reports indicate that recent workforce reductions at the agency have created new uncertainties surrounding its enforcement capabilities.
Here are several common scams that experts suggest taxpayers should be on the lookout for in 2025.
IRS Impersonation: Calls, Emails, and Texts
One prevalent scam involves criminals pretending to be IRS agents through unsolicited phone calls, texts, or emails. These communications typically demand personal information under the pretext of tax issues or unclaimed refunds. The IRS emphasizes that it will never initiate contact via text, social media, or email.
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“They will never call or text you,” said Michael Scheumack, chief innovation officer at IdentityIQ, in an interview with CNBC. “If they need to contact you, it will be through the mail — not through email.”
Voice Cloning
A newer and particularly deceptive tactic involves voice cloning technology. Scammers can replicate the voice of a trusted figure, such as a tax preparer, using just a few seconds of recorded audio. This method can lead to remarkably convincing phone calls soliciting sensitive information.
“AI finds it challenging to respond to spontaneous questions,” Scheumack explained. “The responses typically must be pre-programmed. Therefore, it’s advisable to ask questions like: ‘What is this for?’ or even ‘How did your golf game go last Sunday?'”
Unclaimed Refunds and False Stimulus Payment Offers
Scams claiming to provide “unclaimed refunds” or fake stimulus payments have surged during the 2025 tax season. One widely shared message states: “You qualify to receive a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment. Please provide your correct personal information. We will deposit the amount into your bank account or send a check within 1 to 2 business days.” These scams are designed to trick taxpayers into clicking links that steal Social Security numbers, banking information, or other personal details.
“Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated,” remarked Nati Tal, head of Guardio Labs, during an interview with Newsweek. “With the multitude of distractions in our everyday lives, staying vigilant is more crucial than ever.”
‘Ghost’ Tax Preparers
Known as “ghost” preparers, these individuals file tax returns for clients without signing the documents or providing identification numbers — a breach of federal law. They often promote unusually high refunds or charge fees based on the refund amount, disappearing after submitting fraudulent returns.
Scheumack recommends: “The IRS maintains a directory for searching tax preparers, indicating whether they are verified. Any legitimate tax preparation firm should have reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp, or be listed with the Better Business Bureau.”
The IRS advises that taxpayers should always verify that their preparer has signed their return and included a valid PTIN.
Phishing through Social Media
Scammers have also turned to social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, offering tax advice or promises of increased refunds. The IRS warns that this “poor tax guidance” often misleads individuals into filing incorrect returns or claiming credits they do not qualify for, resulting in audits, penalties, or worse.
“Social media posts may connect you with scammers,” the agency cautions. “Influencers might persuade you to falsify information on tax forms or imply that the IRS is withholding a tax credit from you.”
IRS Capacity and Consumer Risks
The risks faced by consumers are worsened by worries over IRS staffing. The Associated Press reported that recent layoffs have affected the agency’s ability to promptly address scams or dismantle fraudulent websites. Experts indicate that malicious websites and scam campaigns may persist longer than in previous years due to these resource limitations.
“Uncertainty is one of the primary emotional triggers that social engineers leverage,” Dave Chronister, CEO of Parameter Security, stated in an AP interview.
How to Stay Safe
The IRS advises taxpayers to file their returns early, use reliable platforms or professionals, and never share personal information through unsolicited communications. Consumers may also consider creating a protective IRS identity PIN and freezing their credit for additional security.
For further guidance on recognizing and avoiding scams, visit IRS.gov.
