IRS Dirty Dozen Scam #3: Beware of Fake IRS Websites and Online Account Help

Introduction:

Scammers are getting smarter, and unfortunately, more convincing. As part of the IRS Dirty Dozen series, the IRS highlights the most common and dangerous scams targeting taxpayers today. In this blog post, Jon Markee, your Builder CPA, focuses on one that hits especially close to home, fake IRS websites and fraudulent “help” offers for creating or accessing your IRS online account.

Fake IRS Websites: A Growing Threat

Jon has seen this scam firsthand. While searching for legitimate IRS tools, such as making estimated tax payments or paying a balance due, search engine results can sometimes redirect users to fraudulent websites that look shockingly authentic.

These fake sites often mimic the IRS layout and branding and may prompt users to enter sensitive information like Social Security numbers or bank account details. In some cases, Jon made it several screens in before noticing the URL didn’t end in .gov, a critical red flag.

Scam Letters and QR Codes

This threat doesn’t stop online. Jon has also seen fake IRS letters delivered through USPS that include QR codes. These letters invite recipients to scan the code to check a balance due or access their IRS account. Unfortunately, these letters are completely fraudulent and designed to steal personal information.

“Helpful” Third Parties That Aren’t Helpful at All

One of the most dangerous variations of this scam involves third parties offering to “help” create or manage an IRS Individual Online Account. According to the IRS, no outside help is needed. Step-by-step instructions are already provided on the official IRS website.

Scammers posing as helpers often use this access to steal taxpayer data or even file fraudulent tax returns in the victim’s name to claim large refunds.

Why This Scam Keeps Working

The reality is that cybercriminals are getting more sophisticated, and advances in AI are making scam websites, emails, and letters look more legitimate than ever. Compounding the problem, the IRS is not always quick to identify and remove fraudulent sites from search engine results.

This makes vigilance essential, especially when accessing any IRS-related tool or website.

Protect Yourself and Your Business

Always glance at the URL before entering any personal information. If the site doesn’t end in .gov, stop immediately. This advice extends beyond the IRS to any financial or government website you use.

Additionally, if you’re working with a CPA or accounting professional who doesn’t take cybersecurity seriously, it may be time to re-evaluate that relationship. CPA firms are high-value targets for cybercriminals due to the confidential information they handle daily.

Final Thoughts

Fake IRS websites and online account scams are very real. Staying alert, verifying URLs, and avoiding third-party “help” can protect you from identity theft, fraudulent tax filings, and major financial headaches. As always, be cautious, stay informed, and don’t get scammed.

For more insights, watch our latest video where Jon Markee, your Builder CPA, walks through this IRS Dirty Dozen threat in detail.

For more insights like this, watch Jon Markee’s video series covering the IRS Dirty Dozen. As always, thanks for reading and stay vigilant.