How to Detect and Avoid Tax Season Scams

At Mazuma Credit Union, the security of our Members’ financial information and accounts is our top priority. As your trusted financial partner, we closely monitor the evolving risks our Members face in today’s digital world – from phishing and social engineering scams to identity fraud, cybersecurity threats, and beyond. We proactively share information to empower our Members to identify and avoid potential threats that can compromise the security of their data.

Every year, tax season brings anticipation of a refund and the possibility of adding to your emergency savings or paying down debt. Unfortunately, it also brings potential financial pitfalls due to scams and fraud. Let’s take a look at some common tax season scams and how to detect and avoid them.

Common Tax Season Scams to Watch For

• IRS Impersonation Scams
  Scammers may pose as the IRS, contacting you by phone, email, or text and claiming you owe taxes or are entitled to an urgent refund. These messages often pressure you to act quickly or threaten legal action.

• Phishing Emails and Texts
  Fake emails or texts may appear to come from the IRS, tax software providers, or financial institutions. They often include links or attachments designed to steal personal information such as Social Security numbers or login credentials.

• Fake Tax Preparers
  Some fraudsters falsely advertise tax preparation services to attempt to steal identities or refunds. These “preparers” may refuse to sign your return, ask you to sign a blank form, or promise unusually large refunds.

• Refund Theft
  Criminals may file a fraudulent tax return using stolen personal information to claim a refund before you even file your own return.

How to Detect and Avoid Tax Scams

• Be cautious of unsolicited messages claiming to be from the IRS - the IRS will not initiate contact by email, text, or social media.
• Never click links or download attachments from unexpected tax-related messages.
• Use a trusted, reputable tax preparer and verify their credentials.
• Always use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for tax preparation software and your financial accounts.
• File your tax return early to reduce the risk of refund fraud.
• Store sensitive documents and IRS correspondence in a secure, private place.

If You Suspect a Scam

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Do not respond or share information. Contact your financial institution directly using a verified phone number.

Staying informed and alert during tax season can help you keep your personal and financial information safe. Happy filing – we’re rooting for your refund!

Remember: 

Mazuma Credit Union will never call, text, or email you asking for personally identifiable information (social security numbers, secure access codes, passwords/pin numbers, card numbers, or account numbers), ask you to provide us your card, or instruct you to send money through a third-party vendor (PayPal, Venmo, etc.).  

If you are unsure whether an email, phone call, or text message is from Mazuma, please call us directly at 913-574-5000 so that we can assist you.

If you suspect a scam, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.

Check out Mazuma’s Member Security Center for more information!

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