The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is once again reminding taxpayers to stay vigilant against scams, especially during the busy Christmas season. This warning comes as the 9th annual National Tax Security Awareness Week begins.
The IRS has emphasized that scams remain a major threat as fraudsters attempt to steal taxpayers’ personal and financial information. Many of these scams are designed to target IRS tax refunds, and thousands of taxpayers fall victim to these schemes every month.
To help protect yourself during the holidays, the IRS has shared useful tips for staying safe online and avoiding scams.
Simple Tips to Stay Safe from Scammers
- Only shop at online websites with addresses that start with “https:”. Websites without the “s” are not secure.
- Look for a padlock icon in the website address bar to ensure a site is safe.
- Avoid making purchases while connected to public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in stores or shopping malls.
- Regularly update all your devices, including tablets, laptops, and smartphones, to fix security vulnerabilities.
- Teach children and older adults about online safety, as they may not be as tech-savvy.
- Enable firewalls on all your devices to block unauthorized access.
- Install reliable anti-virus software on your computer to protect against malware.
- Use strong, unique passwords for every online account.
- Take advantage of multi-factor authentication for added security whenever it’s available.
Common Holiday Scams to Watch Out For
Scammers are constantly improving their methods, making it harder for many people to spot their traps. One of the most common threats is phishing emails. These deceptive messages may appear to come from the IRS but can lead to harmful consequences if clicked.
The IRS strongly advises taxpayers not to open emails from unknown sources—even if they seem to be related to IRS matters. Instead, visit your local IRS office or check your online account directly. Clicking unknown links could expose you to malware or identity theft.
Scammers don’t just stop at tax information. They are also eager to steal Social Security numbers, bank account details, credit card numbers, and passwords. Using this stolen information, they commit fraud and other crimes, leaving victims in financial and legal trouble.
Stay Safe and Informed
The IRS reminds all taxpayers to be cautious and proactive to avoid becoming a victim of scams. With the Christmas season in full swing and online shopping at its peak, it’s essential to adopt safe practices. Follow the tips provided by the IRS, and if you’re ever unsure about a message or request, contact the IRS directly.
Taking these steps could help protect your personal and financial information during the most wonderful—and busiest—time of the year.
Stay informed, stay safe, and make this holiday season scam-free!
