What to Do After a Tax Scam

What to Do After a Tax Scam

If you read our last blog, you already know how tax scammers operate and what happens when they win. Now let's talk about how to stop them and what to do if they've already reached you.

Know How the IRS Actually Contacts You

The IRS contacts taxpayers by mail first. They do not call out of the blue, send unsolicited texts, or email you demanding payment. If someone claiming to be the IRS is pressuring you over the phone, hang up. It is not real.

How to Protect Yourself Before It Happens

The best defense is a skeptical mindset paired with a few smart habits.

  • Never click links in emails or texts claiming to be from the IRS. Go directly to irs.gov.
  • If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.
  • Use multi-factor authentication on any tax-related accounts or software.
  • Work with a trusted IT provider to keep your devices and email protected.
  • Make sure any employees handling payroll or tax filings know these red flags too.

If You've Already Been Targeted

Do not panic. There are steps you can take to limit the damage.

  1. Change your passwords immediately and run a malware scan on any affected device. Contact your bank to flag suspicious activity.
  2. If your Social Security number or business tax ID was compromised, place a fraud alert or credit freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
  3. Report the scam to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov for emails, or 1-800-366-4484 for phone scams. File a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  4. If a fraudulent return was already filed in your name, submit IRS Form 14039 as soon as possible to start the resolution process.

You Should Not Have to Handle This Alone

Recovering from a tax scam is stressful and time-consuming. The best move is having the right protections in place before it ever gets to that point. That means securing your email, your devices, and your employee data before tax season gives scammers the opening they need.

KRS IT Consulting locks down your systems so scammers never get a foothold. Call 201.402.1900 or book a Free Consultation, and our team will dig into your setup and reinforce every weak spot before trouble hits, because security during tax season shouldn’t feel reactive. It should feel structured.