Beware: $1400 Stimulus Check Scams Are Flooding Your Text Messages!

In recent weeks, a disturbing trend has emerged as scammers are increasingly impersonating the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to trick unsuspecting individuals into providing personal information. These fraudulent messages claim that recipients are eligible for a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued urgent warnings about these scams, advising the public to remain vigilant and avoid clicking on any links contained in such texts.

The IRS has been sending out automatic payments to eligible individuals who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. This has led to confusion, as scammers are exploiting this situation by sending texts that mimic the look of official IRS communications. However, legitimate messages from the IRS will never be sent via text; they are always communicated through official letters sent by postal mail.

How the Scam Works

1. Receiving the Text: Individuals receive a text from what appears to be the IRS, claiming they are eligible for a $1,400 payment.
2. Phishing Attempts: The message typically contains a fake link that resembles an official IRS website, leading to potential phishing attempts.
3. Urgent Requests: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring recipients to act quickly by providing personal information to receive the supposed funds.

These tactics are designed to elicit quick responses, making victims more susceptible to falling for the scam. If you receive such a text, it is crucial to not engage with it. Instead, report it to the IRS and the BBB.

The Risks of Engaging with Scammers

Victims of these scams may be asked to provide sensitive personal information, which can lead to identity theft. Clicking on links in these fraudulent texts can result in malware installation on devices or lead to fraudulent forms requesting sensitive information. The IRS has made it clear that they will never ask for such information via text or email, emphasizing that any legitimate communication will be conducted through official channels.

What to Do If You Receive a Scam Text

If you suspect that a text message is a scam, consider the following steps:

• Do Not Click Links: Avoid clicking on any links in unsolicited messages. Instead, verify information by visiting the official IRS website at IRS.gov.

• Report the Scam: Forward suspicious messages to [email protected] and report them to BBB.org/ScamTracker.

• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the signs of scams. The BBB offers educational resources to help individuals recognize and avoid fraudulent schemes.

The Importance of Awareness

Awareness of these scams is particularly crucial during tax season when individuals are more vulnerable to financial fraud. The IRS is currently sending automatic payments to eligible taxpayers, and those who qualify do not need to take any action to receive their funds. Payments are sent directly to eligible taxpayers’ mailing addresses or direct deposit accounts based on information already provided to the IRS.

Conclusion

As the prevalence of these scams continues to rise, public awareness and education about financial fraud become increasingly important. The IRS has reiterated that they will never contact taxpayers via text or email unless the taxpayer has opted in for such communications. Always consult the official IRS website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding stimulus payments and tax-related inquiries.

By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to these scams and ensure their personal information remains secure. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it often is. Stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.