If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. That seems to be the motto of scammers who keep badgering News 8 viewers with a text message appearing to be from the IRS.News 8 On Your Side warned you about this text message scam a few weeks ago, and now we’re going to talk about it again for two reasons:A lot of viewers are asking us about this every day.We’re getting into the heart of tax season, and a lot of people could fall for this.The text reads, “You are eligible to receive a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment. Please provide your accurate personal information. We will deposit the amount into your bank account or mail a paper check within 1 to 2 business days.”While anyone would love to get money from the government, this is a scam. The IRS doesn’t text people without their permission.You also won’t be asked for your personal information because the IRS already has it.Another red flag is that the message comes from a free Hotmail address and not a secure government email.The text also includes a link. As News 8 On Your Side has told you before, clicking on a suspicious link is always a bad idea. You don’t know what damage it can do.Between now and April, you can expect a lot of scam messages appearing to be from the IRS.Keep your guard up and keep your money in your pocket.
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. That seems to be the motto of scammers who keep badgering News 8 viewers with a text message appearing to be from the IRS.
News 8 On Your Side warned you about this text message scam a few weeks ago, and now we’re going to talk about it again for two reasons:
- A lot of viewers are asking us about this every day.
- We’re getting into the heart of tax season, and a lot of people could fall for this.
The text reads, “You are eligible to receive a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment. Please provide your accurate personal information. We will deposit the amount into your bank account or mail a paper check within 1 to 2 business days.”
While anyone would love to get money from the government, this is a scam.
The IRS doesn’t text people without their permission.
You also won’t be asked for your personal information because the IRS already has it.
Another red flag is that the message comes from a free Hotmail address and not a secure government email.
The text also includes a link. As News 8 On Your Side has told you before, clicking on a suspicious link is always a bad idea. You don’t know what damage it can do.
Between now and April, you can expect a lot of scam messages appearing to be from the IRS.
Keep your guard up and keep your money in your pocket.
Source: Scammers pose as IRS, claim you're eligible for $1,400 payment
