By Mark Sipos, LFG Tax Director Tax season is here, and with it are scammers looking for their next victim. Scammers mislead you about tax refunds, credits, and payments, so it’s important to be aware of what their scams can look like. Common schemes Scammers are always changing their tactics in hopes of exploiting you. There are a flurry of deceptive schemes that pop up and this year will be no different. Recently, the IRS has seen scammers do the following: Request gift cards over the phone through a government impersonation scam or by sending a text message, email or social media message. Remember, the IRS never asks for or accepts gift cards as payment for a tax bill. Pose as an IRS agent and call the taxpayer or leave a pre-recorded voicemail stating they are linked to some criminal activity. Threaten or harass the taxpayer by telling them that they must pay a fictitious tax penalty. Instruct the taxpayer to buy gift cards from various stores. Pressure the taxpayer to buy gift cards, then ask the taxpayer to provide the gift card number and PIN. To verify it’s the IRS, go to IRS.gov and verify the form or visit the Let Us Help You page to verify tax information with self-service options. Know who’s calling If the IRS does need to contact you, they will typically contact you the first time through regular U.S. mail delivered by the USPS. The IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages, or social media channels
Have you heard of package scams that come right to your door? West Carrollton Police issued a scam warning on social media. They say a “sneak scam” is making the rounds across the country. “It’s called a ‘brushing’ scam, and it’s like getting an unsolicited surprise gift from your not-so-friendly neighborhood trickster!” the department said. “Picture this: you get a random package from Amazon or some mystery shop, filled with shiny goodies like rings, bracelets, or even a Bluetooth speaker. Exciting, right? But wait, there’s no sender info, just your address on the label. Inside, you’ll find a QR code begging to be scanned to unveil the mystery sender.” Scanning the code could lead people to a phishing site. This is where crooks could try to swipe your personal and financial information, the department explained. “You can toss the gift or keep it as a bizarre conversation starter, but whatever you do, don’t scan that QR code!” they added. The concluded if it is a mysterious package, it’s best to leave that QR code alone. The Better Business Bureau and U.S. Postal Service have more about this scam. This story first appeared on