US citizens could be victims of a new fraud attempt. The notice was issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
The thieves’ novel method is to mail a letter to taxpayers to convince them they deserve a refund. The letter includes contact information and a phone number, which is unofficial.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said this example of theft is another form of deception by identity scammers. Mr. Werfel added that criminals use other forms of communication to confuse users, such as using virtual platforms.
Criminals use this scam to try to get information from people, including driver’s license photos. Another wish of the bandits is to provide customers’ mobile phone numbers.
Attempts are also made to collect bank and social security reports. After all, these criminals put pressure on the population to deliver the requested content quickly.
The mistakes thieves make
Purchasing these items gives thieves an opportunity to receive tax refunds. The intent of the usurpers is to create a blackmail effect, as consumers believe they will not get a refund if they don’t give out their identity documents.
The message from these scammers raises suspicions as it contains some conflicting criteria. The IRS fixes several errors redacted in the thieves’ letter.
These scammers state in their text that the last deadline for filing tax returns is October 17 this year. However, the IRS clarifies that the maximum filing date is October 16, 2023.
In addition, the authorities point out that there are some taxpayers who have not received a tax refund. These individuals have the right to file their taxes after October 16 of the current year. The final clarification concerns the unclaimed property claimed by thieves, and this is not a concern of the IRS.