The IRS has issued a warning to tax professionals to watch out for a “new client” scam that usually “peaks during the busy tax filing season.” (IRS Tax Tip 2024-06, 2/13/2024)
As described by the agency, a scammer emails a tax professional to ask for help with their taxes. “This phishing email has a malicious link or attachments that the scammer claims is their tax information,” it said.
When the recipient clicks on the link or opens the attachment, the scammer gains access to the tax preparer’s email address, password, and possibly other information.
“Some scammers may also load malware onto the tax pro’s computer to gain access to their system and their clients’ data,” the IRS said, adding that “scammers may also use that tax professional’s hacked email account to target clients.”
The agency urged people to report suspected phishing schemes to the:
- Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
- Federal Trade Commission
- Internet Crime Complaint Center
The IRS also reminded tax professionals that pursuant to Federal Trade Commission rules they must have a Written Information Security Plan.
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