Check Your Email For A New Scam

        A new variation of an old scam is reportedly showing up in many email in-boxes. This one talks about a supposedly new tax form that needs to be filled out and returned to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as soon as possible. You are instructed to download the attachment and send it back with all the information requested, along with scanned copies of passports and other forms of identification. There are several problems with this scenario, let’s take a closer look so you will be able to protect yourself if you are in the same situation.

          First, the IRS does not initiate contact through email. If an email or text leaves you confused, it’s a scam. The tax forms that are being discussed are real. However, the scammers are creating fake versions to gather account numbers from banks and other information to steal identities. Another point to consider is the actual content of the message. If the grammar is poor, the information is not consistent, or you are asked to send the information to an email that does not have a .gov address, it is a scam. Do not download unexpected attachments, no matter what they claim to be. If you receive one of these emails, just delete it. There is no reason to spend any time with thieves. If you have questions about your status, contact the IRS directly or speak to your Qualified Tax Professional.

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