The IRS reports on dozens of tax scams it comes across every given year. The phishing scam is all too common, so it pays to get a refresher on what it’s all about—and how to keep clear of it!
How Does Phishing Work?
Phishing involves creating deceptive emails or websites that mimic legitimate ones. The goal is to trick you into sharing sensitive personal information. Scammers use these convincing imitations as bait to obtain details such as your name, address, phone number, Social Security number, credit card information, or bank account credentials. Often, these fraudulent messages appear to come from trusted sources, like the IRS or a similar authority, making them seem authentic.
Once cybercriminals obtain your information, they can commit identity theft, file fraudulent tax returns to claim refunds, access your bank accounts, open credit cards in your name, or create fake identities for other schemes. Always stay alert—if something seems suspicious or too good to be true, trust your instincts and proceed with caution!
What to Watch Out For
These tips can help you spot a fake request. Just remember, the scammers are getting trickier all the time. Be on guard!
Once cybercriminals obtain your information, they can commit identity theft, file fraudulent tax returns to claim refunds, access your bank accounts, open credit cards in your name, or create fake identities for other schemes. Always stay alert—if something seems suspicious or too good to be true, trust your instincts and proceed with caution!
1. Unsolicited Emails
The IRS does not initiate contact through email. It’s that simple. So if you receive an unsolicited email claiming to be from the IRS and requesting a response, do not reply. Instead, forward the email to phishing@irs.gov.
2. Don’t Click or Download
Avoid clicking or downloading anything from suspicious emails, even if they appear to come from someone you know. Scammers often impersonate trusted contacts to gain access to your information. If you’re in doubt, just reach out to the person to confirm their account hasn’t been hacked.
3. Check for Valid Websites
Always verify website addresses. The legitimate IRS website is www.irs.gov and the Social Security Administration’s site is www.ssa.gov. Even realistic-looking emails or links can be traps if they direct you to fraudulent sites. Check the URL before you attempt to log in.
4. Having Information Ready
Watch out for scammers who already know some of your personal information, such as your middle name or birth date. Just because they have details about you doesn’t make their request legitimate.
5. Phone Phishing
Phishing isn’t limited to emails, it can happen over the phone too. If you get an unexpected call, ask for the caller’s name and ID, then hang up. Use the official phone number from the IRS or the company’s website to verify the contact. Scammers usually end their attempts when you take this extra step.
6. Be Mindful of Social Media
Finally, phishing can also occur on social media and through text messages. Be vigilant. Nearly every digital platform can be exploited for theft. Always think twice before sharing or clicking online—it’s the best way to protect yourself.
Unsure About a Link? Check with Us!
If you encounter any suspicious links or requests this tax season, be sure to stay safe! You don’t want to give out your information to the wrong site. Feel free to check with our team to confirm that you’re in the right place. We’re here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
Our clients appreciate our fair, transparent pricing — no surprise fees, no confusing invoices. Individual tax returns start at $750, and business returns start at $1,500. If you’d like to talk through your specific situation before committing, a one-hour consultation with a CPA and tax preparer is $250.
Every client’s needs are different, so these starting rates can vary based on the complexity of your return or the scope of services you need. Visit our pricing page for more detail.
If you need accounting, bookkeeping, or tax services, contact us today — we’d love to learn more about your situation and provide pricing tailored to your needs.
We work with a wide variety of individual and business clients across central Indiana. Our clients range from entrepreneurs and small business owners to business professionals, retired individuals, families, and business corporations of all sizes.
Whether you’re just starting a business, managing personal and family finances, planning for retirement, or running an established company, we tailor our accounting, tax, and advisory services to fit where you are and where you’re headed. No two clients are exactly alike, and neither is our approach — we take the time to understand your specific situation so we can offer advice that actually applies to you.
NSO and Company is located in Fishers, Indiana, just off I-69 near the intersection of Lantern Road and 96th Street — an easy, convenient drive from anywhere in the Indianapolis area. Our office is at 8950 Fitness Lane, Suite 100, Fishers, IN 46037.
We’re open Monday through Friday, 8 am – 4 pm, and welcome walk-ins as well as scheduled appointments. If you’d like to speak with someone directly, call us at 317-588-3131.
NSO and Company combines years of experience with personalized service to help individuals and businesses prepare their taxes accurately and on time. We take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and look for opportunities to help you maximize your tax savings, while staying compliant and making the process as smooth as possible. Our clients also value our fair pricing and the confidence that comes from working with a trusted local firm.
