SCAMS ALERT: Bipartisan Leaders of the Joint Economic Committee Warn Americans About Tax Season Scams

Ahead of the April 15th deadline for tax filing, Joint Economic Committee Chairman David Schweikert (R-AZ), Ranking Member Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Vice Chairman Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Senior House Democrat Don Beyer (D-VA) issued a bipartisan alert today warning Americans about common tax season scams. These scams have become increasingly common, especially with emerging AI tactics, and nearly one in four Americans have reported being victimized by a tax scam.

"Criminal enterprises are exploiting tax season to target Americans, including seniors," said Chairman Schweikert. "Scammers are impersonating the Internal Revenue Service through fake websites and calls in an effort to steal your money. Please remember, the IRS will not contact you via social media, demand immediate payment, or threaten to call law enforcement. If something seems suspicious, don't click on links or share personal information. Stay vigilant and only use a reputable tax service or go directly to IRS.gov."

"As Americans file their taxes this month, scammers are deploying an onslaught of attacks - often enhanced by artificial intelligence - designed to steal people's money," said Senator Hassan. "I encourage all taxpayers to review the tips in this bipartisan scams alert so that they can stay vigilant and protect their identities and accounts."

"With tax season upon us, it's important Americans remain vigilant and stay aware of possible scams," said Senator Schmitt. "During filing season scammers will often prey on Americans by impersonating the IRS, using fraudulent links, or launching fake websites to steal personal information. Using these tips from the Joint Economic Committee, Americans can protect themselves from scammers and keep their information private and secure during filing season."

"This tax season, it's more important than ever for American taxpayers to stay vigilant as tax scams continue to rise," said Representative Beyer. "Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated technologies, including AI, to make fraudulent communications appear credible. Taking extra care to verify any IRS outreach is the best defense against becoming victims of these crimes."

Read the Committee's tax season scams alert here.