As tax season ramps up, so do the scammers. Each year, fraudsters pose as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to pressure taxpayers into sending money, sharing personal information, or clicking on malicious links. In 2026, these scams are already circulating through phone calls, emails, text messages, and even fake tax preparation websites.

At Consumers National Bank, your financial security is always our priority. This Fraud Friday, we’re breaking down how IRS impersonation scams work, what red flags to watch for, and how to protect your refund and your identity.

How IRS Impersonation Scams Work

Scammers rely on urgency and fear. They may claim you owe back taxes, face penalties, or are due a refund, but only if you act immediately. These criminals often spoof caller IDs, forge official-looking emails, and design websites that closely resemble legitimate government pages.

Here are the most common tactics we’re seeing this tax season:

1. Threatening Phone Calls

You receive a call from someone claiming to represent the IRS. They may:

• Demand immediate payment
• Threaten arrest, deportation, or license suspension
• Insist you stay on the line while withdrawing cash or purchasing gift cards

Remember: The IRS does not demand immediate payment over the phone or threaten law enforcement action without prior written notice.

2. Phishing Emails & Text Messages

Fraudulent emails and texts often claim:

• There’s a problem with your return
• You’re owed a larger refund
• You must “verify” personal information

They typically include links to fake websites designed to steal Social Security numbers, bank details, or login credentials.

Important Reminder: Always check website addresses carefully. Official IRS websites end in .gov, such as irs.gov. Scammers often use lookalike domains like “.com,” “.org,” or slight misspellings to trick taxpayers.

3. Fake Tax Filing Websites

Cybercriminals create convincing tax filing portals that mimic legitimate tax software providers or government platforms. These sites may:

• Offer “free” filing to lure victims
• Collect sensitive information during signup
• Install malware onto your device

Before entering any personal information:

• Confirm the web address begins with https://
• Look for the secure padlock icon
• Double-check the domain spelling
• Ensure the site ends in .gov when interacting with government agencies

Taking an extra few seconds to verify a web address can prevent months or even years of identity theft recovery.

4. Refund Fraud & Identity Theft

In some cases, scammers file fraudulent tax returns using stolen Social Security numbers before the legitimate taxpayer files. When victims attempt to submit their return, they learn one has already been filed in their name.

Warning signs include:

• Receiving IRS notices about returns you didn’t file
• Unexpected tax transcripts in the mail
• Being told a refund was already issued

If this happens, act immediately to protect your financial accounts and credit profile.

How to Protect Yourself This Tax Season

Tax scams succeed when criminals create panic. Staying calm and informed is your best defense.

Here’s how to safeguard your finances:

✔ Know How the IRS Communicates

The IRS typically initiates contact through official letters mailed via the U.S. Postal Service, not through threatening phone calls, emails, or texts.

✔ Guard Your Personal Information

Never share your Social Security number, online banking credentials, or debit card details in response to unsolicited messages.

✔ Use Strong Digital Security

• Enable multi-factor authentication on financial accounts
• Use unique, complex passwords
• Keep devices and antivirus software updated

✔ Monitor Your Accounts Closely

Regularly review your account activity through Consumers National Bank’s online and mobile banking tools. Early detection is key to minimizing fraud impact.

✔ File Early

Submitting your tax return as soon as you have the necessary documents can help prevent scammers from filing a fraudulent return in your name. Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track your return and spot discrepancies.

What to Do If You’re Targeted

If you receive a suspicious call, email, or message:

1. Do not respond or click any links.
2. Do not provide personal or financial information.
3. Report the incident directly at irs.gov.
4. Contact Consumers National Bank immediately if you shared account information or notice unusual transactions.

Our team can help you:

• Monitor for fraudulent activity
• Replace compromised debit cards
• Add additional security features to your accounts

Stay Alert, Stay Protected

Tax season should be about preparing your return, not worrying about scams. By understanding how IRS impersonators operate and verifying that you’re using legitimate .gov websites, you can significantly reduce your risk.

At Consumers National Bank, we’re committed to helping you protect what matters most. If you have questions about suspicious activity or want to review your account security, contact us or stop by your local branch.

Fraudsters may be persistent, but with awareness and the right tools, you can stay one step ahead.

Stay safe this tax season, and we’ll see you next Fraud Friday!