The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has warned that scammers are running a new phishing scam, pretending to be the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). They are sending fake messages claiming that people are eligible for a $1,400 stimulus check. According to NBC affiliate KSBY, these messages look real, but they are designed to steal personal information.
When someone clicks the link in the message, it leads to a fake website. The site asks for personal details, promising that the money will be deposited into their bank account or mailed within a few days. However, once victims enter their information, scammers steal it for identity theft or financial fraud.
How the Scam Works
The scammers send text messages that appear to come from the IRS. These messages tell recipients that they qualify for a $1,400 payment and provide a link to claim the money. However, the IRS has confirmed that it never contacts people through text, email, or social media to request personal details.
The BBB explained that clicking the link could lead to:
- Malware being installed on your device
- A fake form asking for sensitive information like Social Security numbers or banking details
- Identity theft or financial fraud
Real IRS Stimulus Payments
In reality, the IRS has announced that it will send automatic payments to eligible taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. These payments will be deposited directly into bank accounts or sent as paper checks by late January 2025. The IRS will also send a letter to confirm the payment.
This process applies only to taxpayers who filed a 2021 tax return but did not claim the credit they were entitled to. There is no need to apply or submit any information to receive these payments.
How to Stay Safe
To protect yourself from scams:
- Ignore unexpected IRS messages. The IRS will never ask for personal details via text, email, or social media.
- Verify IRS updates through official sources. Visit IRS.gov for accurate information.
- Do not click on suspicious links. If you receive a message about stimulus payments, delete it immediately.
If you suspect a scam, report it to the IRS or the Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker to help warn others.
