Alert: IRS Warns of Fraudulent Emails
IRS officials have been alerted to reports of people receiving “very official” looking emails that appear to come from the IRS and instructing them to respond, click on a link, or open an attachment in order to get their 2008 Economic Stimulus Refund.
According to IRS spokesperson Peggy Riley, “if you access a link or open an attachment in these bogus emails, you should immediately scan your computer system for viruses and spyware – plus be alert for suspicious activities on your financial accounts. If you have actually responded to a scam by email by giving out your private information, you should immediately take steps to prevent identity theft.”
The IRS reminds people:
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The IRS never sends unsolicited email about your taxes.
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If you get a suspicious looking email, don’t access any links or attachments
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If you have already filed a 2007 federal tax return with the IRS, you don’t need to do anything else to get a stimulus payment. The IRS will take care of the rest.
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Anyone who receives suspicious emails addressed from the IRS can help stop these scammers by forwarding them to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov
