Few evolve with the times faster than those looking to take advantage of the unsuspecting. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently noted that this is true when it comes to tax fraudsters who try to take advantage of taxpayers. The latest tool for their scams: social media. Two examples include the following.
#1: Direct messaging
Sliding into someone’s DMs may be a new tool used by tax scammers to take advantage of taxpayers throughout the country. It is wise for taxpayers to review any correspondence claiming to be from the IRS for authenticity — especially those that come through channels like social media direct messaging.
The IRS is most likely to reach out via traditional mail, as in the type that requires paper and a stamp. Although it is wise to review these traditional correspondences, it is especially important to consider the high likelihood that a DM or other social media contact claiming to be from the IRS is most likely a scam.
#2: Tax planning advice
It is important to note that not all scammers will claim to be with the IRS. Others may reach out claiming to have tax planning strategies that can minimize or even eliminate tax obligations. These may not be the tax professionals they claim to be, and the advice could be wrong or even illegal. Remember, at the end of the day the IRS will hold the taxpayer accountable for their tax filings. Taxpayers are unlikely to find success removing liability by claiming they were simply following the instructions given by a tax professional.
The path to tax compliance is not always straightforward. It is complicated and even the savviest amongst us can stumble. This is why it is important to reach out to those with experience navigating these complicated paths if we find ourselves the subject of a tax audit. The attorneys at Goldburd McCone can use their experience in this niche area of law to review your situation, discuss your options, and advocate for your interests.