IRS Issues Alert on Scams Targeting Seniors

Scammers often target seniors, attempting to obtain personal information through phone calls, emails, or text messages falsely attributed to the IRS or other agencies," said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. "Preventing these scams requires collaboration. By working with other federal agencies and the tax community, we can better protect seniors and other taxpayers." 

This alert coincides with preparations for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), celebrated on June 15. Since 2006, WEAAD has sought to increase understanding of the neglect and abuse faced by millions of older adults, highlighting cultural, social, economic, and demographic factors contributing to these issues. 

Common Scam Types The IRS has noted an increase in scams targeting seniors. Scammers impersonate IRS agents, pressuring victims to make immediate payments through unconventional methods such as gift cards or bank transfers. They use sophisticated techniques to appear legitimate, including manipulating caller IDs. 

Examples of Common Schemes: 

Impersonation of Known Entities: Scammers pose as representatives of agencies like the IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare, or charitable organizations, using fake caller IDs.

Claims of Issues or Prizes: They fabricate urgent scenarios, such as outstanding debts or promises of prizes. They falsely inform victims they owe money to the IRS or are due a tax refund.

Pressure for Immediate Action: They demand swift actions under threats of arrest, deportation, or license suspension, creating a sense of urgency.

Specific Payment Methods: They insist on hard-to-track payment methods like cryptocurrencies, gift cards, or payment apps, and request sensitive information such as gift card numbers.

Protecting Yourself: If you receive an unexpected call from someone claiming to be from the IRS and have not received prior mail notification, hang up immediately. It's likely a scam. Do not call back using the number provided by the caller. To verify the legitimacy of IRS communications, contact IRS customer service at 800-829-1040, or for hearing impaired, TTY/TDD 800-829-4059. To review details about your tax account, set up or verify your account online at IRS.gov. 

Reporting Scams: Electronic scams are also on the rise, with fraudulent emails and text messages impersonating the IRS. The IRS does not initiate contact through these means to discuss tax bills or refunds. To report a phone call or electronic scam, visit the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) hotline page and use the IRS impersonation scam reporting form, or call 800-366-4484. Forms for reporting different types of fraud are available on the TIGTA hotline page. 

Key Points to Remember 

-Most IRS communications begin through regular mail.

-The IRS never demands immediate payment via prepaid debit cards, gift cards, or bank transfers.

-The IRS does not threaten to involve local police or other law enforcement agencies.

-The IRS does not demand payment without allowing opportunities to dispute or appeal the amount owed.

-The IRS never requests credit, debit, or gift card numbers over the phone.

-Staying informed about these scams is crucial to protect against financial loss and identity theft. The IRS and its partner agencies urge everyone to be cautious, especially with unsolicited communications about taxes.

In March 2020, the U.S. Department of Justice introduced the National Elder Fraud Hotline to address fraud targeting older Americans. If you have been a victim of elder fraud, contact the hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311). The hotline operates Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, with services available in English, Spanish, and other languages. 

Stay Informed and Protected It is essential for everyone, especially seniors, to stay informed about these scam tactics to avoid becoming victims. Collaboration among the IRS, other federal agencies, and the tax community is vital to ensuring citizens are protected from these crimes. 

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