Tax season is stressful enough—don’t let scammers make it worse. As more financial information is exchanged online and via digital tools, bad actors are becoming increasingly clever at stealing sensitive data and defrauding taxpayers. From phishing emails to bogus refund promises, tax scams can affect anyone—but small businesses, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals are frequent targets. 

At JAK, we’re committed to helping you stay informed and protected. Here’s what you need to know to navigate tax season safely. 

What the IRS Says About Tax Scams 

Each year, the IRS publishes its “Dirty Dozen” list—an annual roundup of the most prevalent and dangerous tax scams affecting individuals and businesses alike. These are not just harmless annoyances; they can lead to identity theft, drained bank accounts, and unauthorized access to sensitive business data. 

Helpful IRS Links: 

Common Tax Scams to Watch Out for in 2025 

Here are a few scams featured in this year’s IRS “Dirty Dozen” list that every taxpayer should be aware of: 

1. Phishing and Smishing Schemes 

These scams arrive via email (phishing) or text (smishing), impersonating the IRS and requesting personal or financial information. The IRS will never initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text, or social media about a tax bill or refund. 

2. Fake Charities 

Scammers create fake charities, especially after major disasters, to trick people into making donations. Always verify a charity’s legitimacy before giving. 

3. Offer in Compromise “Mills” 

These companies promise to settle your tax debt for pennies on the dollar—often charging high fees while providing little to no actual relief. Only work with licensed professionals who follow IRS protocols. 

4. Social Media Tax Advice Gone Wrong 

Not all “tax tips” trending online are accurate. Following viral tax strategies can lead to audits or penalties. Always verify tax advice with a trusted expert. 

5. Spearphishing for Professionals 

Businesses and tax pros are increasingly targeted with malware-laced emails that mimic client or IRS communications. These attacks are designed to capture login credentials and compromise networks. 

How JAK Supports Safe, Smart Tax Filing 

At JAK, we believe education is the first line of defense against tax scams. We work to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and systems they need to navigate tax season confidently and securely. 

Here’s how we help you stay one step ahead: 

Scammers are evolving. Your protection should too. Stay informed, work with trusted professionals, and never share sensitive information unless you’re absolutely sure of the source. 

If you’re concerned about potential scams or just want peace of mind about your taxes, reach out to us today.  

Tax Scam FAQs

In 2025, scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to target taxpayers. Common scams include fake IRS calls demanding immediate payment, phishing emails requesting personal or financial details, fraudulent refund schemes, and identity theft involving stolen Social Security numbers. Technology has also given rise to AI-generated scams that look and sound more convincing than ever. Victims may receive official-looking letters, texts, or emails designed to trick them into providing sensitive information. JAK educates clients on these evolving tactics and stresses that the IRS never demands payment via phone, email, or gift cards, an important red flag to remember.

The IRS primarily communicates by official mail, not by phone, text, or email. If you receive a threatening call demanding immediate payment or a suspicious email with links, it is almost certainly a scam. Legitimate IRS notices will include identifying information such as your tax account number and instructions to contact the agency directly. If in doubt, you can verify notices using the IRS website or by calling their official number. JAK advises clients to never provide sensitive information to unverified contacts and to reach out for professional guidance before responding to any questionable communication. 

If you suspect a tax scam, the most important step is not to respond to the message or engage with the caller. Save any documentation and report the incident directly to the IRS through their official channels, such as the phishing@irs.govemail address. Victims of identity theft should also file a complaint with the FTC and consider placing fraud alerts on credit accounts. JAK recommends contacting a CPA to help assess whether your financial or tax information has been compromised. Taking immediate action can help minimize damage, protect your accounts, and prevent scammers from exploiting you further. 

Businesses are frequent scam targets because of the larger financial transactions they handle. To reduce risk, organizations should train employees to recognize phishing attempts and implement multi-factor authentication on sensitive accounts. Establishing strict protocols for handling tax documents and payments helps prevent fraudulent activity. Cybersecurity measures, including updated firewalls and secure networks, are critical. JAK works with businesses to implement best practices, such as limiting who has access to sensitive data and reviewing suspicious communications before responding. Protecting your business from scams requires a proactive approach that combines employee education, secure systems, and ongoing vigilance.

JAK supports clients by providing education on the latest scam tactics, reviewing suspicious communications, and helping secure sensitive tax records. Our team emphasizes preventative measures, such as strong password management, secure file-sharing systems, and employee training. When clients suspect fraud, JAK guides them through the reporting process and coordinates steps to mitigate potential damage. Most importantly, we give individuals and businesses confidence by being a trusted resource. Tax scams are constantly evolving, but with JAK’s guidance, clients can feel secure knowing they have expert support to navigate tax season safely and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.