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  1. Fraud
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Don’t let a tax scam catch you off guard
2/9/2026

Tax day has passed—but this is when scam activity tends to pick up. If you’re expecting a refund or recently filed, here’s how to stay one step ahead.

What to watch for

“There’s an issue with your refund”

You get a text or email asking you to click a link and verify your info. The link leads to a fake site designed to capture your details.

“This is the IRS calling”

A caller claiming to be the IRS says you owe back taxes and pressures you to pay right away, sometimes using threats such as jail time to create urgency.

What to know

  • The IRS won’t text, email or call you for personal or financial information
  • They won’t call and demand immediate payment
  • They won’t threaten arrest or legal action over the phone

How to protect yourself

  • Ignore unexpected messages asking you to act fast
  • Go directly to official websites instead of using links
  • Never share sensitive info over text, email, or phone
  • Hang up and verify if something feels off
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