IRS Tax Scam: Is It a Scam?
Yes, this is a scam. Do not click any links or provide personal information.
IRS impersonation scams have stolen hundreds of millions of dollars from taxpayers. Scammers call, text, or email pretending to be the IRS, threatening arrest or legal action unless you pay immediately.
How This Scam Works
The scam typically follows this pattern:
1. **You receive an aggressive call or message** claiming to be from the IRS.
2. **The scammer claims you owe back taxes** and threatens immediate arrest, deportation, or license revocation.
3. **They demand immediate payment** via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency - untraceable methods.
4. **They may "spoof" caller ID** to show an IRS phone number.
5. **They pressure you** to stay on the line and not consult anyone else.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Threatening immediate arrest - The IRS doesn't do this
- Demanding specific payment methods - Gift cards, wire transfers, crypto
- Requiring immediate payment - The IRS always allows appeals
- Refusing to provide documentation
- Calling without prior mail notice - IRS always sends letters first
- Asking for credit/debit card numbers over the phone
- Threatening deportation (for immigrants)
Example Scam Messages
This is the IRS. You owe $4,387 in back taxes and a warrant has been issued for your arrest. To avoid being taken into custody, you must pay immediately using iTunes gift cards.
URGENT: IRS Notice - Your tax filing contains discrepancies. Your case has been referred to federal court. Call 1-800-XXX-XXXX immediately to resolve.
The IRS is filing a lawsuit against you for tax evasion. This is your final notice before legal action. Call to settle your debt now.
What to Do If You Received This
- Hang up immediately - Don't engage with the caller
- Don't call back numbers they provide
- Check your actual tax status at irs.gov or by calling 1-800-829-1040
- Report the scam to TIGTA (Treasury Inspector General)
- Remember - The IRS always contacts you by mail first
What to Do If You Fell For It
- Contact your bank immediately if you sent money
- Report to local police
- File a complaint with the FTC
- Report to TIGTA at treasury.gov/tigta
- Monitor your credit for identity theft
- Consider a credit freeze if you shared your SSN
How to Report This Scam
- TIGTA - treasury.gov/tigta or 1-800-366-4484
- FTC - reportfraud.ftc.gov
- IRS - [email protected]
Last updated: January 13, 2026