Tax Scam Alert

This time of year, there are many tax-related scams to watch out for. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), tax-related identity theft-a criminal using someone’s Social Security number and personal data to file a phony tax return (and reap any refunds)-is the most common type of identity theft.

Cornell University Security is issuing a warning regarding a new tax scam going around wherein the criminals deposit someone else's refund into your account then call pretending to be law enforcement.

Also be wary of any telephone or email messages claiming to be from the IRS, especially those demanding immediate payment, or requesting your personal information, including your social security number or username and password for e-filing. The IRS will never send an email requesting that you download, upload, or access your tax transcripts.

For more detailed information, visit the IRS website:https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts

Also, see the Identity Theft Resource Center website: https://www.idtheftcenter.org/taxidtheft