The IRS released two notices last week regarding tax season scams.
The first, for tax filing professionals, described a phishing scheme in which scammers impersonated the IRS and requested verification of the filer’s Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) and driver’s license. This information could be used to submit fraudulent returns using the tax professional’s identity.
Tax professionals and those who handle an organization’s financial information are high profile targets for criminals. These individuals can expect sophisticated, targeted attempts to steal their identity or obtain sensitive information.
The second notice described scammers impersonating the IRS and using a fake Form W-8BEN, the Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding, to collect sensitive personal information.
The scam targets non-residents of the U.S. who use the form to file for tax exemption. The fake form asks for information not required on the real form, such as mother’s maiden name, passport number, PIN numbers and passcodes.
International students, faculty and staff are likely to be targeted by this scam.
In general, these individuals are more likely to be targets of fraud attempts, including threats of law enforcement action, visa revocation, or deportation for individuals that do not comply with the government official imposters’ demands. Scammers leverage their target’s fears and lack of familiarity with U.S. law.
More information
IRS, Summit partners issue urgent EFIN scam alert to tax professionals
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-summit-partners-issue-urgent-efin-scam-alert-to-tax-professionals
Fake Form W-8BEN Used in IRS Tax Scams
https://www.irs.gov/privacy-disclosure/fake-form-w-8ben-used-in-irs-tax-scams