If you receive a text message stating that you’re entitled to a $1,400 stimulus check from what appears to be the IRS, do not click on any links provided. This message is likely a scam since the federal agency does not send out such notifications. Criminals are impersonating the IRS in an effort to deceive taxpayers into revealing personal information through fake alerts about their eligibility for additional funds, according to the Better Business Bureau.
These misleading texts often sound credible, as they reference recent developments. In late December, the IRS announced that it would be distributing $2.4 million in total to 1 million individuals to compensate those who did not receive all of their federal stimulus checks during the pandemic.
However, the payments — which can be as much as $1,400 per individual — are made automatically, and recipients have received letters from the IRS, with most payments expected to have been delivered by late January. This money pertains to taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns, requiring no action on their part.
Understanding the scam:
You may receive a text that appears to be from the IRS, claiming you are eligible for a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment and urging you to provide personal information to facilitate a deposit into your bank account or a mailed check within 1 to 2 business days.
This phishing attempt includes a fabricated link that resembles an official IRS website. Clicking on it could lead to malware or a fake form requesting personal or financial information. Remember, the IRS does not ask for information in this manner — they do not reach out to taxpayers via text, email, or social media.
Advice from the Better Business Bureau:
- Confirm communications: Official IRS notifications are sent via postal mail, not through texts or emails.
- Avoid clicking on links: Do not click on links in unsolicited messages. Instead, visit IRS.gov directly.
- Be alert for urgency: Scammers create a sense of urgency to pressure you into quick decisions. Take the time to independently verify claims.
- Report the scam: Forward any suspicious messages to [email protected] and file a report at BBB.org/ScamTracker.
