🕷️ Crawler Inspector

[INSIDE CUBA An Inside Look at Cuba’s Fight for Survival](https://www.newsweek.com/an-inside-look-at-cubas-fight-for-survival-11796400) - [Nation](https://www.newsweek.com/us) - [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) - [Politics](https://www.newsweek.com/politics) - [Tech](https://www.newsweek.com/technology) - [Fact Check](https://www.newsweek.com/fact-check) - [Personal Finance](https://www.newsweek.com/personal-finance) - [Automotive](https://www.newsweek.com/autos) - [Sports](https://www.newsweek.com/sports) - [Better Workplaces](https://www.newsweek.com/better-workplaces) - [World](https://www.newsweek.com/world) - [Russia-Ukraine](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/russia) - [Middle East](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/middle-east) - [China And Asia](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/china) - [Better Planet](https://www.newsweek.com/better-planet) - [All World News](https://www.newsweek.com/world) - [Lifestyle](https://www.newsweek.com/life) - [Family & Parenting](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/parenting) - [Entertainment](https://www.newsweek.com/entertainment) - [Travel](https://www.newsweek.com/travel) - [Pets](https://www.newsweek.com/pets) - [Relationships](https://www.newsweek.com/relationships) - [Science](https://www.newsweek.com/tech-science) - [Health](https://www.newsweek.com/health) - [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) - [My Turn](https://www.newsweek.com/my-turn) - [All Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) - [Rankings](https://rankings.newsweek.com/) - [Health](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/health) - [Finance](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/finance) - [Products](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/products-services) - [Education](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/education) - [Workplaces](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/work) - [Corporate Responsibility](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/corporate-responsibility) - [All Rankings](https://rankings.newsweek.com/) - [Connect](https://www.newsweek.com/) - [Newsletters](https://www.newsweek.com/preference-center) - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/Newsweek) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/newsweek) - [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/newsweek) - [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@newsweek) - [Twitter/X](https://x.com/newsweek) - [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/user/newsweek/) - [Announcements](https://www.newsweek.com/announcements) - [Leadership](https://www.newsweek.com/leadership) - [Dev Pragad](https://www.newsweek.com/dev-pragad) - [More](https://www.newsweek.com/) - [Newsmakers](https://www.newsweek.com/newsmakers) - [Unconventional](https://www.newsweek.com/unconventional) - [Events](https://events.newsweek.com/) - [Podcasts](https://www.newsweek.com/podcasts) - [Vantage](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/vantage) - [Readers Choice](https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice) - [Magazine](https://www.newsweek.com/archive) - [CEO Circle](https://www.newsweek.com/ceo-circle) [Subscribe](https://www.newsweek.com/subscribe) Sign In - Nation [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news)[Politics](https://www.newsweek.com/politics)[Tech](https://www.newsweek.com/technology)[Fact Check](https://www.newsweek.com/fact-check)[Personal Finance](https://www.newsweek.com/personal-finance)[Automotive](https://www.newsweek.com/autos)[Sports](https://www.newsweek.com/sports)[Better Workplaces](https://www.newsweek.com/better-workplaces) - World [Russia-Ukraine](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/russia)[Middle East](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/middle-east)[China And Asia](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/china)[Better Planet](https://www.newsweek.com/better-planet)[All World News](https://www.newsweek.com/world) - Lifestyle [Family & Parenting](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/parenting)[Entertainment](https://www.newsweek.com/entertainment)[Travel](https://www.newsweek.com/travel)[Pets](https://www.newsweek.com/pets)[Relationships](https://www.newsweek.com/relationships)[Science](https://www.newsweek.com/tech-science)[Health](https://www.newsweek.com/health) - Opinion [My Turn](https://www.newsweek.com/my-turn)[All Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) - Rankings [Health](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/health)[Finance](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/finance)[Products](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/products-services)[Education](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/education)[Workplaces](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/work)[Corporate Responsibility](https://rankings.newsweek.com/category/corporate-responsibility)[All Rankings](https://rankings.newsweek.com/) - Connect [Newsletters](https://www.newsweek.com/preference-center)[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/Newsweek)[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/newsweek)[YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/newsweek)[TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@newsweek)[Twitter/X](https://x.com/newsweek)[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/user/newsweek/)[Announcements](https://www.newsweek.com/announcements)[Leadership](https://www.newsweek.com/leadership)[Dev Pragad](https://www.newsweek.com/dev-pragad) - More [Newsmakers](https://www.newsweek.com/newsmakers)[Unconventional](https://www.newsweek.com/unconventional)[Events](https://events.newsweek.com/)[Podcasts](https://www.newsweek.com/podcasts)[Vantage](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/vantage)[Readers Choice](https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice)[Magazine](https://www.newsweek.com/archive)[CEO Circle](https://www.newsweek.com/ceo-circle) [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) [IRS](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/irs)[Internal Revenue Service](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/internal-revenue-service)[Tax](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/tax)[Scam](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/scam)[Scams](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/scams)[Warning](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/warning)[Fraud](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/fraud)[Americans](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/americans)[Federal](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/federal)[Taxpayer](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/taxpayer)[Emails](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/emails)[Social media](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/social-media) More News Article # IRS Warning to Millions of Americans as Tax Deadline Approaches *** Published Mar 20, 2026 at 08:20 AM EDT updated Mar 20, 2026 at 08:21 AM EDT ## Video  3 Have You Been A Victim Of Smishing? Key Tips To Protect Yourself From Scam Texts *** ### Related Videos -  US Ambassador To UN Blames Iran Of Hiding Military Hardware In Civilian Spaces -  Clay Fuller Defeats Shawn Harris to Hold Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Georgia Seat -  Have You Been A Victim Of Smishing? Key Tips To Protect Yourself From Scam Texts By Sam Stevenson Associate News Editor 0 Share [Newsweek is a Trust Project member](https://www.newsweek.com/editorial-guidelines) Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. *** The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is urging taxpayers to stay alert for scams as the filing deadline nears, warning that criminals are using tax season to target Americans with increasingly sophisticated schemes. ## Why It Matters Tax season [consistently brings a spike in fraud](https://www.newsweek.com/expert-tips-to-avoid-shopping-scams-this-spring-season-11666686), with scammers exploiting confusion, urgency and [fear around filing and refunds](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-tax-fraud-scam-update-11591160). Federal officials say these [tactics evolve every year](https://www.newsweek.com/social-security-update-agency-issues-new-scam-warnings-11627137) as criminals [adapt to new technology](https://www.newsweek.com/tax-scams-to-watch-out-for-during-irs-filing-season-11464219) and taxpayer behavior. A stock image of U.S. currency sitting in a pile. \| Getty Images ## What To Know The IRS released its annual "Dirty Dozen" list on March 5, highlighting the most common and dangerous tax scams facing Americans [during the 2026 filing season](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-tax-filing-boost-americans-deadline-11639086). The list is published each year to flag emerging threats and recurring schemes that can lead to identity theft, financial loss or compromised tax accounts. Read More #### News [IRS Issues Tax Extensions for Two States: What To Know](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-tax-extensions-two-states-what-to-know-11798305) [IRS Tax Refund: Thousands of Americans Could Get \$6,700 Extra](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-tax-refund-thousands-of-americans-could-get-6700-extra-11787317) [State Tax Deadlines 2026: What’s Changed—and When You Need to File](https://www.newsweek.com/state-tax-deadlines-2026-whats-changed-when-you-need-to-file-11792807) [More Related Stories](https://www.newsweek.com/news) While the tactics vary, many scams rely on impersonation, misinformation or promises that sound too good to be true. According to the IRS, scammers often pose as agency officials or trusted third parties, contacting taxpayers by email, text message or phone call. These messages may claim there is a problem with a return, threaten legal action or promise a large refund in exchange for personal information. Other schemes [take advantage of social media](https://www.newsweek.com/gen-z-and-millennials-most-at-risk-of-ai-scams-survey-shows-10892076), where misleading tax advice can spread quickly. Fraudsters may encourage people to claim credits they are not eligible for or follow filing strategies that could trigger audits or penalties. The IRS also warns about fake tax preparers who advertise quick refunds or guaranteed results but disappear after filing fraudulent returns. In some cases, taxpayers do not realize something is wrong until they receive IRS notices months later. Officials stress that the agency does not initiate contact with taxpayers through unsolicited emails, texts or social media messages. Requests for sensitive information, especially when paired with pressure or threats, are a major red flag. The Dirty Dozen campaign is part of a broader effort by the IRS to educate the public during tax season, especially as filing deadlines approach and anxiety levels rise. ## The IRS's 2026 Dirty Dozen: 12 Key Scams To Watch For **1\. IRS Impersonation by Email and Text (Phishing and Smishing)** Scammers send emails, texts and social media messages pretending to be from the IRS, often using urgent language or QR codes to steal personal information. Clicking links can also install malware that locks users out of their devices or files. **2\. AI‑Enabled IRS Impersonation by Phone** Fraudsters use robocalls, spoofed numbers and even AI‑generated voices to pose as IRS officials demanding immediate action. The IRS says it does not make threatening prerecorded calls or demand payment over the phone. **3\. Fake Charities**Scammers create fake charities, often after disasters or tragedies, to steal donations and personal information. Only donations to IRS‑recognized charities qualify for tax deductions. **4\. Misleading Tax Advice on Social Media** Viral "tax hacks" online may encourage people to claim credits they don't qualify for or file false information. Following this advice can lead to audits, delayed refunds, penalties or criminal consequences. **5\. Identity Theft Involving IRS Online Accounts**Criminals use stolen personal data to break into IRS online accounts or pose as helpers during account setup. Taxpayers should create accounts only through IRS.gov and avoid unsolicited assistance. **6\. Abusive Undistributed Long‑Term Capital Gains Claims** Some schemes involve fake or inflated Form 2439 claims tied to nonexistent or misrepresented investment funds. These improper filings can trigger audits, refund delays and enforcement action. **7\. Bogus "Self‑Employment Tax Credit" Promotions** Scammers falsely promote a broad self‑employment tax credit to generate improper refunds. The IRS says many taxpayers do not qualify and closely reviews these claims. **8\. Ghost Preparers** Ghost preparers file returns but refuse to sign them or include a required identification number. Taxpayers are legally responsible for what's filed, making unsigned returns a major red flag. **9\. Non‑Cash Charitable Contribution Schemes**Some promoters inflate the value of donated property, artwork, or conservation easements to reduce tax bills. The IRS warns it may hold refunds while verifying questionable claims. **10\. Overstated Withholding Schemes**Scammers encourage taxpayers to falsify withholding amounts to create larger refunds on paper. The IRS cross‑checks filings with third‑party records and may impose penalties. **11\. Spear-Phishing and Malware Targeting Tax Professionals** Hackers target tax professionals with fake client emails or document requests carrying malicious links. Stolen access can expose sensitive taxpayer data and spread scams further. **12\. Aggressive or Misleading Offer in Compromise Marketing** Some companies overpromise tax debt relief through the Offer in Compromise program while charging high fees to ineligible taxpayers. The IRS urges people to use its free tools to check eligibility before paying anyone. ## When Is the Tax Filing Deadline? The deadline to file federal tax returns for 2025 income is April 15. Any taxes owed must also be paid by that date to avoid penalties and interest. U.S. citizens and residents living or serving in the military outside the country automatically get an extra two months to file, with their deadline extended to June 15. ## What People Are Saying **IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said:** "Slam the Scam Day provides a great opportunity to remind everyone to remain vigilant and watch out for scams because thieves continuously adjust the pitches they use to take advantage of honest taxpayers. "For more than two decades, the IRS has used the Dirty Dozen list to flag emerging scams that taxpayers should watch out for." ## What Happens Next With the tax deadline drawing closer, federal officials are expected to continue pushing public awareness efforts, while consumer advocates and lawmakers keep a broader focus on fraud, cybersecurity and [identity theft beyond tax season](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-issues-christmas-warning-to-millions-of-americans-11153922). > In a polarized era, the center is dismissed as bland. At *Newsweek*, ours is different: The Courageous Center—it's not "both sides," it's sharp, challenging and alive with ideas. We follow facts, not factions. If that sounds like the kind of journalism you want to see thrive, we need you. > > When you [become a Newsweek Member](https://www.newsweek.com/subscribe?utm_campaign=inlineCTAv2), you support a mission to keep the center strong and vibrant. Members enjoy: Ad-free browsing, exclusive content and editor conversations. [Help keep the center courageous. Join today.](https://www.newsweek.com/subscribe) Newsweek’s reporters and editors used Martyn, our AI assistant, to help produce this story. [Learn more about Martyn.](https://www.newsweek.com/newsweek-martyn-newsroom-assistant) [Request Reprint & Licensing](https://www.newsweek.com/contact) Submit Correction [View Editorial & AI Guidelines](https://www.newsweek.com/editorial-guidelines) *** Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. ## Recommended For You [Personal Finance](https://www.newsweek.com/personal-finance) [IRS Tax Refund: New Warning Issued](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-tax-refund-new-warning-issued-11778213) 5 min read [U.S](https://www.newsweek.com/u-s) [Thousands of Americans Face New IRS Deadline to Avoid Penalties](https://www.newsweek.com/thousands-americans-face-irs-deadline-avoid-penalties-11791370) 3 min read [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) [IRS Announces Major Expansion of Tax Service to Millions](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-announces-major-expansion-tax-service-millions-11791220) 3 min read [Weather](https://www.newsweek.com/weather) [Heavy Snow Warning As 8 Inches To Strike: ‘Hazardous Conditions’](https://www.newsweek.com/heavy-snow-warning-8-inches-hazardous-conditions-11791731) 3 min read [Personal Finance](https://www.newsweek.com/personal-finance) [SNAP Benefits: Warning Issued on Major Problem](https://www.newsweek.com/snap-benefits-warning-issued-on-major-problem-11789472) 4 min read [Education](https://www.newsweek.com/education) [College Access Warning Issued on Major Trump Budget Changes](https://www.newsweek.com/college-access-warning-issued-on-major-trump-budget-changes-11794973) 5 min read [Immigration](https://www.newsweek.com/immigration) [ICE Detains Green Card Holder With 6 Citizen Kids After 32 Years in US](https://www.newsweek.com/ice-detains-green-card-holder-with-6-citizen-kids-after-32-years-in-us-11795283) 5 min read [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) [Medicare Payments to Rise Under New Policy](https://www.newsweek.com/medicare-payments-to-rise-under-new-policy-11792759) 3 min read [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) [State Tax Deadlines 2026: What’s Changed—and When You Need to File](https://www.newsweek.com/state-tax-deadlines-2026-whats-changed-when-you-need-to-file-11792807) 3 min read [Food & Drink](https://www.newsweek.com/food-drink) [Ice Cream Recall Update as FDA Sets Most Serious Risk Level](https://www.newsweek.com/ice-cream-recall-fda-house-flavors-michigan-11734128) 3 min read [Politics](https://www.newsweek.com/politics) [Plan for \$3,000 Direct Payments to Americans Gets Boost: List of Sponsors](https://www.newsweek.com/plan-for-3000-direct-payments-to-americans-gets-boost-list-of-sponsors-11749540) 3 min read [U.S.](https://www.newsweek.com/us) [Lawmakers Demand 25th Amendment Be Invoked Against Trump: Full List](https://www.newsweek.com/invoke-25th-amendment-donald-trump-officials-list-11794791) 2 min read [Life](https://www.newsweek.com/life) [How Seniors Could Save Thousands in a Year](https://www.newsweek.com/how-seniors-could-save-thousands-in-a-year-11792480) 6 min read [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) [List of Conservatives Urging 25th Amendment Be Invoked Against Trump](https://www.newsweek.com/list-of-conservatives-urging-25th-amendment-be-invoked-against-trump-11794470) 6 min read [Weather](https://www.newsweek.com/weather) [Warning Issued as Significant Ice Storm to Hit Hawaii: ‘Impossible’ Travel](https://www.newsweek.com/ice-storm-honolulu-hawaii-impossible-travel-winter-storm-warning-11793713) 3 min read ## Related Podcasts ## Top Stories [World](https://www.newsweek.com/world) [Iran War Latest: Trump Declares ‘Big Day For World Peace’ After Iran’s 10-Point Plan](https://www.newsweek.com/iran-war-latest-live-updates-trump-declares-big-day-world-peace-iran-10-point-ceasefire-plan-oil-prices-11797257) 2 min read [For Members](https://www.newsweek.com/topic/for-members) [Analysis](https://www.newsweek.com/analysis) [Iran’s 10-Point Peace Plan for Trump: Dissected](https://www.newsweek.com/iran-10-point-peace-plan-trump-war-israel-dissected-11798222) 14 min read [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) [Iran Pressures Trump to Give Them Better Deal Than Obama](https://www.newsweek.com/iran-pressures-trump-to-give-them-better-deal-than-obama-11796825) 5 min read [Politics](https://www.newsweek.com/politics) [Democrats Win In Republican Stronghold](https://www.newsweek.com/democrats-win-in-republican-stronghold-11797177) 3 min read [News](https://www.newsweek.com/news) [Russia Responds to Trump’s Iran Ceasefire: ‘Crushing Defeat’](https://www.newsweek.com/russia-responds-trump-iran-war-ceasefire-crushing-defeat-11797709) 4 min read [Politics](https://www.newsweek.com/politics) [Clay Fuller Defeats Shawn Harris to Hold Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Seat](https://www.newsweek.com/clay-fuller-defeats-shawn-harris-to-hold-marjorie-taylor-greenes-seat-11795250) 4 min read ## Conversation Log in \| Sign up Start a discussion, not a fire. Post with kindness. Read our guidelines [here](https://www.newsweek.com/community-guidelines)  All Comments MOST LIKED **0** ### All Comments Start the conversation Powered by [Trending](https://www.newsweek.com/) Trump [China Responds to Trump’s Latest Deadline for Iran](https://www.newsweek.com/china-responds-trump-latest-deadline-iran-11791558) 4 min read Gold [France Pulls All Gold Out of US Federal Reserve](https://www.newsweek.com/france-pulls-all-gold-out-of-us-federal-reserve-11792591) 3 min read US Politics [Donald Trump Impeachment and Removal Odds Hit Record High](https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-impeachment-and-removal-odds-hit-new-record-high-11795216) 4 min read Family [Mom Wakes Up From Nap, Something Feels off—Then Sees What 3-Year-Old Ate](https://www.newsweek.com/mom-wakes-up-from-nap-something-feels-off-then-sees-what-3-year-old-ate-11786967) 3 min read Donald Trump [Lawmakers Demand 25th Amendment Be Invoked Against Trump: Full List](https://www.newsweek.com/invoke-25th-amendment-donald-trump-officials-list-11794791) 6 min read [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) [Can U.S. Iran War Strategy Survive the News Cycle?](https://www.newsweek.com/can-the-iran-war-survive-the-news-cycle-11792281) 8 min read [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) [Zelensky Ties Ukraine To Broader Effort Against Iran’s Axis \| Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/zelensky-ties-ukraine-to-broader-effort-against-irans-axis-opinion-11787472) 4 min read [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) [K-Pop Prediction Hunters \| Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/k-pop-prediction-hunters-opinion-11767862) 7 min read [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) [Second Chances Cannot Be Reserved for the Privileged Few \| Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/second-chances-cannot-be-reserved-for-the-privileged-few-opinion-11773171) 5 min read [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) [What Exactly Is the Purpose of NATO in the Year 2026?](https://www.newsweek.com/what-exactly-is-the-purpose-of-nato-in-the-year-2026-11784411) 5 min read ### sections - [Nation](https://www.newsweek.com/us) - [World](https://www.newsweek.com/world) - [Lifestyle](https://www.newsweek.com/life) - [Health](https://www.newsweek.com/health) - [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) - [Rankings](https://rankings.newsweek.com/) ### company - [About Us](https://www.newsweek.com/about-newsweek) - [Masthead](https://www.newsweek.com/about-newsweek#masthead) - [Careers](https://www.newsweek.com/careers) - [Diversity & Inclusion](https://www.newsweek.com/diversity-report) - [Mission Statement](https://www.newsweek.com/mission-statement) - [Leadership](https://www.newsweek.com/leadership) ### editions - [U.S. Edition](https://www.newsweek.com/) - [日本](https://www.newsweekjapan.jp/) - [Polska](https://www.newsweek.pl/) - [România](https://newsweek.ro/) ### contact - [Advertise](https://advertising.newsweek.com/) - [Corrections](https://www.newsweek.com/corrections) - [Announcements](https://www.newsweek.com/announcements) - [Press Center](https://www.newsweek.com/press-center-image-gallery) - [Contact Us](https://www.newsweek.com/contact) ### terms of use - [Cookie Policy](https://www.newsweek.com/cookie-policy) - [Copyright](https://www.newsweek.com/copyright) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.newsweek.com/privacy-policy) - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.newsweek.com/terms-service) - [Terms of Sale](https://www.newsweek.com/terms-sale) - Privacy Settings ### sections - [Nation](https://www.newsweek.com/us) - [World](https://www.newsweek.com/world) - [Lifestyle](https://www.newsweek.com/life) - [Health](https://www.newsweek.com/health) - [Opinion](https://www.newsweek.com/opinion) - [Rankings](https://rankings.newsweek.com/) ### company - [About Us](https://www.newsweek.com/about-newsweek) - [Masthead](https://www.newsweek.com/about-newsweek#masthead) - [Careers](https://www.newsweek.com/careers) - [Diversity & Inclusion](https://www.newsweek.com/diversity-report) - [Mission Statement](https://www.newsweek.com/mission-statement) - [Leadership](https://www.newsweek.com/leadership) ### editions - [U.S. Edition](https://www.newsweek.com/) - [日本](https://www.newsweekjapan.jp/) - [Polska](https://www.newsweek.pl/) - [România](https://newsweek.ro/) ### contact - [Advertise](https://advertising.newsweek.com/) - [Corrections](https://www.newsweek.com/corrections) - [Announcements](https://www.newsweek.com/announcements) - [Press Center](https://www.newsweek.com/press-center-image-gallery) - [Contact Us](https://www.newsweek.com/contact) ### terms of use - [Cookie Policy](https://www.newsweek.com/cookie-policy) - [Copyright](https://www.newsweek.com/copyright) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.newsweek.com/privacy-policy) - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.newsweek.com/terms-service) - [Terms of Sale](https://www.newsweek.com/terms-sale) - Privacy Settings © 2026 Newsweek Digital LLC  **0**  

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is urging taxpayers to stay alert for scams as the filing deadline nears, warning that criminals are using tax season to target Americans with increasingly sophisticated schemes. ## Why It Matters Tax season [consistently brings a spike in fraud](https://www.newsweek.com/expert-tips-to-avoid-shopping-scams-this-spring-season-11666686), with scammers exploiting confusion, urgency and [fear around filing and refunds](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-tax-fraud-scam-update-11591160). Federal officials say these [tactics evolve every year](https://www.newsweek.com/social-security-update-agency-issues-new-scam-warnings-11627137) as criminals [adapt to new technology](https://www.newsweek.com/tax-scams-to-watch-out-for-during-irs-filing-season-11464219) and taxpayer behavior. A stock image of U.S. currency sitting in a pile. \| Getty Images ## What To Know The IRS released its annual "Dirty Dozen" list on March 5, highlighting the most common and dangerous tax scams facing Americans [during the 2026 filing season](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-tax-filing-boost-americans-deadline-11639086). The list is published each year to flag emerging threats and recurring schemes that can lead to identity theft, financial loss or compromised tax accounts. While the tactics vary, many scams rely on impersonation, misinformation or promises that sound too good to be true. According to the IRS, scammers often pose as agency officials or trusted third parties, contacting taxpayers by email, text message or phone call. These messages may claim there is a problem with a return, threaten legal action or promise a large refund in exchange for personal information. Other schemes [take advantage of social media](https://www.newsweek.com/gen-z-and-millennials-most-at-risk-of-ai-scams-survey-shows-10892076), where misleading tax advice can spread quickly. Fraudsters may encourage people to claim credits they are not eligible for or follow filing strategies that could trigger audits or penalties. The IRS also warns about fake tax preparers who advertise quick refunds or guaranteed results but disappear after filing fraudulent returns. In some cases, taxpayers do not realize something is wrong until they receive IRS notices months later. Officials stress that the agency does not initiate contact with taxpayers through unsolicited emails, texts or social media messages. Requests for sensitive information, especially when paired with pressure or threats, are a major red flag. The Dirty Dozen campaign is part of a broader effort by the IRS to educate the public during tax season, especially as filing deadlines approach and anxiety levels rise. ## The IRS's 2026 Dirty Dozen: 12 Key Scams To Watch For **1\. IRS Impersonation by Email and Text (Phishing and Smishing)** Scammers send emails, texts and social media messages pretending to be from the IRS, often using urgent language or QR codes to steal personal information. Clicking links can also install malware that locks users out of their devices or files. **2\. AI‑Enabled IRS Impersonation by Phone** Fraudsters use robocalls, spoofed numbers and even AI‑generated voices to pose as IRS officials demanding immediate action. The IRS says it does not make threatening prerecorded calls or demand payment over the phone. **3\. Fake Charities**Scammers create fake charities, often after disasters or tragedies, to steal donations and personal information. Only donations to IRS‑recognized charities qualify for tax deductions. **4\. Misleading Tax Advice on Social Media** Viral "tax hacks" online may encourage people to claim credits they don't qualify for or file false information. Following this advice can lead to audits, delayed refunds, penalties or criminal consequences. **5\. Identity Theft Involving IRS Online Accounts**Criminals use stolen personal data to break into IRS online accounts or pose as helpers during account setup. Taxpayers should create accounts only through IRS.gov and avoid unsolicited assistance. **6\. Abusive Undistributed Long‑Term Capital Gains Claims** Some schemes involve fake or inflated Form 2439 claims tied to nonexistent or misrepresented investment funds. These improper filings can trigger audits, refund delays and enforcement action. **7\. Bogus "Self‑Employment Tax Credit" Promotions** Scammers falsely promote a broad self‑employment tax credit to generate improper refunds. The IRS says many taxpayers do not qualify and closely reviews these claims. **8\. Ghost Preparers** Ghost preparers file returns but refuse to sign them or include a required identification number. Taxpayers are legally responsible for what's filed, making unsigned returns a major red flag. **9\. Non‑Cash Charitable Contribution Schemes**Some promoters inflate the value of donated property, artwork, or conservation easements to reduce tax bills. The IRS warns it may hold refunds while verifying questionable claims. **10\. Overstated Withholding Schemes**Scammers encourage taxpayers to falsify withholding amounts to create larger refunds on paper. The IRS cross‑checks filings with third‑party records and may impose penalties. **11\. Spear-Phishing and Malware Targeting Tax Professionals** Hackers target tax professionals with fake client emails or document requests carrying malicious links. Stolen access can expose sensitive taxpayer data and spread scams further. **12\. Aggressive or Misleading Offer in Compromise Marketing** Some companies overpromise tax debt relief through the Offer in Compromise program while charging high fees to ineligible taxpayers. The IRS urges people to use its free tools to check eligibility before paying anyone. ## When Is the Tax Filing Deadline? The deadline to file federal tax returns for 2025 income is April 15. Any taxes owed must also be paid by that date to avoid penalties and interest. U.S. citizens and residents living or serving in the military outside the country automatically get an extra two months to file, with their deadline extended to June 15. ## What People Are Saying **IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said:** "Slam the Scam Day provides a great opportunity to remind everyone to remain vigilant and watch out for scams because thieves continuously adjust the pitches they use to take advantage of honest taxpayers. "For more than two decades, the IRS has used the Dirty Dozen list to flag emerging scams that taxpayers should watch out for." ## What Happens Next With the tax deadline drawing closer, federal officials are expected to continue pushing public awareness efforts, while consumer advocates and lawmakers keep a broader focus on fraud, cybersecurity and [identity theft beyond tax season](https://www.newsweek.com/irs-issues-christmas-warning-to-millions-of-americans-11153922). > In a polarized era, the center is dismissed as bland. At *Newsweek*, ours is different: The Courageous Center—it's not "both sides," it's sharp, challenging and alive with ideas. We follow facts, not factions. If that sounds like the kind of journalism you want to see thrive, we need you. > > When you [become a Newsweek Member](https://www.newsweek.com/subscribe?utm_campaign=inlineCTAv2), you support a mission to keep the center strong and vibrant. Members enjoy: Ad-free browsing, exclusive content and editor conversations. [Help keep the center courageous. Join today.](https://www.newsweek.com/subscribe)