Tax Fraud Awareness: What to Watch For
By: Vivian Havlin
Hello everyone, it’s that time of the year again, the time we talk about something that comes up every single year tax fraud.
We’ve shared information on this topic many times before, and unfortunately, this year is no different. Every January, millions of people begin filing their taxes, and time and time again, many hardworking individuals fall victim to scams that cost them money, personal information, or even their tax refund.
With the 2026 tax season underway, we want to once again highlight the most common and newest tax scams you should be watching out for.
Scammers don’t take a year off. In fact, they’ve gotten more sophisticated, using technology and fear tactics to make their schemes sound legitimate. Let’s walk through the biggest tax scams we’re seeing in 2026.
Top Tax Scams to Watch for in 2026
IRS Impersonation Scams, if someone calls, emails, or messages you claiming to be from the IRS and threatens arrest, lawsuits, or says you must pay immediately that is a scam. The IRS will never demand payment by gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or threaten you over the phone. We at Citizens’ Crime Watch always emphasize that the IRS will not call but rather use the post office to communicate with you.
AI Generated Phishing Emails and Messages. Scammers are now using artificial intelligence to create very realistic emails, texts, and even voice messages that sound official. These messages may use the IRS logo, formal language, and links asking you to verify your information. Please always remember don’t click or download attachments from unexpected tax related messages.
Fake Tax Refund Texts and Emails, you might receive a message saying you’re owed an unexpected refund and need to confirm your personal or banking information. This is a common tactic and a dangerous one. The IRS does not initiate contact via text or social media.
Ghost Tax Preparers, be careful who you trust to prepare your taxes. We in our organization encourage you to always use the same firm or person to file your taxes. However, a ghost preparer may promise a bigger refund, refuse to sign your return, or ask that your refund be deposited into their account. A legitimate tax preparer must sign your return and include their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number, also known as a PTIN. Please make sure to always check references and credentials.
Identity Theft and Stolen Refund Fraud, this one has been around for a while now, but we must discuss it again as it continues to affect many of us. This happens when criminals use stolen personal information to file a tax return before you do. Many victims only find out after their legitimate refund is rejected. Filling early is one of the best ways to protect yourself.
Fake Charity Donation Scams, scammers often created fake charities, especially after disasters or during tax season, encouraging donations for a tax deduction. Always verify charities before donating and never feel pressured to give immediately.
Threatening calls about arrest or tax liens these high-pressure calls are designed to scare you. They may spoof real phone numbers and use fake badges or case numbers. When in doubt hang up and verify independently. The most important thing to remember is these scammers rely on fear and urgency; they want you to act before you think.
Below are some ways you can protect yourself this tax season: File your taxes early. Never share personal information through unsolicited calls, texts or emails. Verify your tax preparer. Lastly, take your time, pressure is a red flag. If something feels off, trust your instincts.
At Citizens’ Crime Watch of Miami-Dade County, our goal is to keep our community informed and protected, knowledge is one of the strongest tools we have against fraud.
If you found this information helpful, please share it with family, friends, and neighbors, especially seniors or anyone filing their taxes soon.
Stay safe, stay informed, and we’ll continue bringing you the latest tips to help prevent fraud in our community.
Until next time, stay informed, stay safe, and keep looking out for one another. Because when we know better, we protect better.
📞 Need help or have questions? Call us at 305-470-1670
🌐 Or visit www.citizenscrimewatch.org
