The Better Business Bureau has issued a warning to taxpayers about a current scam taking advantage of the tax season. Although the message seems legitimate and promises a $1,400 payment, it is actually a phishing attempt aimed at stealing your personal information.
Scammers are reaching out to individuals via text messages indicating that they are eligible to receive a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment. The message requests personal information, claiming that once provided, the funds will either be deposited directly into their bank account or sent by check within 1 to 2 business days.
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The link embedded in the text message resembles an official IRS website, but according to the BBB, clicking on it may lead to malware or a counterfeit form requesting sensitive personal or financial details.
This scam seems to be exploiting a previously announced initiative by the IRS to deliver $1,400 payments to qualifying taxpayers. In this situation, the IRS stated that the payments were for those who filed a 2021 tax return but did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their returns.
Eligible taxpayers were not required to take any steps to receive this payment, as the IRS communicated with them through a letter. These payments were slated to be issued by late January 2025.
The BBB further emphasizes that the IRS will never reach out to taxpayers via text messages, emails, or social media to ask for sensitive personal information.
For additional information or to report a scam, please visit the BBB website.
