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Navigating IRS's Tax Scams List: Stay Safe in 2025

In today’s rapidly advancing digital era, scams are more sophisticated than ever before. Harnessing AI, scammers can imitate voices, craft emails, and even mimic your trusted tax advisor’s style.

The IRS is on high alert. Annually, they disclose the “Dirty Dozen”—a collection of the most notorious tax scams targeting individuals. These frauds are evolving at an unsettling pace.

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Why Awareness is Crucial (Even for the Vigilant)

Think it can’t happen to you? Rethink. Scams now bypass even the most cautious user's instincts by utilizing advanced methods that are hard to detect. Remember, the IRS will never initiate contact via phone, email, or text.

Identifying the 2025 “Dirty Dozen”

1. AI-Driven Phishing Attempts

Scammers use AI to design emails and texts that are indistinguishable from the IRS, tax software, or even your accountant’s correspondence.

Action: Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages. Always visit IRS.gov or consult your trusted tax advisor.

2. Misleading “Refund Help” Ads

Scrolling through social media? Watch out for ads claiming outrageous refunds. These scams usually file false returns and carry hefty penalties once uncovered.

Action: Work only with licensed, verified professionals. Question unusually large refunds.

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3. Offer in Compromise Mill Scams

While legitimate, scammers exploit these programs by charging high fees without delivering services.

Action: Consult a qualified tax professional familiar with your unique financial situation.

4. Imposter Charities

Every disaster triggers a wave of fake charity requests. They aim to exploit your goodwill after a crisis.

Action: Verify charity legitimacy through the IRS Tax-Exempt Org Search and remain wary of unconventional payment requests.

5. ERC (Employee Retention Credit) Fraud

Fraudsters file false ERC claims, costing businesses hefty repayments including penalties.

Action: If eligibility is promised without a thorough review, it’s likely a scam.

6. Spear Phishing Directed at Tax Experts

These scams aim at professionals, using bogus IRS emails to steal client data.

Action: Ensure your tax preparer has stringent data security protocols.

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7. Bogus Online Tax Advice

Videos suggesting “easy” tax evasion methods lead many into audits and legal troubles.

Action: Vet information sources thoroughly and consult professionals for tax guidance.

8. Ghost Preparers

Tax preparers who refuse to sign returns aren’t legitimate and likely engage in fraudulent practices.

Action: Ensure your preparer signs with their PTIN.

9. Fake IRS Calls

Automated or live calls that demand immediate payment in unusual forms indicate scams.

Action: End such calls immediately. Report them to TIGTA.

10. Fraudulent Tax Benefits Promotion

Scams pushing unrealistic deductions or credits often result in IRS penalties.

Action: Document claims thoroughly. Question dubious advisories.

11. Social Security Spoofing

Frauduses of SSNs to file false returns can result in rejections for legitimate ones.

Action: File taxes early, consider the IRS’s IP PIN, and adopt multifactor authentication.

12. Erroneous Fuel Tax Credit Claims

Only off-highway businesses qualify; beware anyone promising fuel tax money indiscriminately.

Action: Reject suspicious claims; don’t sign unfamiliar agreements.

Stay Cautious and Informed

You don’t need to live in fear, but staying informed is crucial. Spread awareness; knowledge is the best defense against fraud. Protect those around you—especially vulnerable family members—and enforce strong security measures.

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