How the scam works
You receive a text from what appears to be the IRS. The text claims that you’re eligible to receive a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment and that you should provide your personal information. The scammer claims that the amount will be deposited into your bank account or mailed by check within 1 to 2 business days. One person reported receiving this scam text to BBB Scam Tracker.
This IRS text is a phishing scam. The message contains a fake link that mimics an official IRS website. Clicking it may lead to malware or a fraudulent form asking for personal or financial information. The IRS does not contact taxpayers via text, email, or social media, and they will never request information this way.
How to avoid this scam
Verify communications: Genuine IRS notices are sent through postal mail, not text messages or emails.
Avoid clicking links: Never click on links in unsolicited messages. Instead, go directly to IRS.gov for information.
Be cautious of urgency: Scammers create a sense of urgency to make you act quickly. Take time to confirm claims independently.
Report the scam: Forward suspicious messages to phishing@irs.gov and report them to BBB.org/ScamTracker.