Tax season is upon us once again, and criminals have been “filing” long before most taxpayers prepare their returns. In 2026, fraudsters are refining their tactics, using stolen data, sophisticated impersonation, and even AI-driven scams to lodge fraudulent returns in your name and claim refunds before you do. This year’s threats are more aggressive and more convincing than ever, making proactive identity protection essential for every filer.
Why Criminals Target Tax Season
Every year, fraudsters target tax season because stolen refunds can deliver quick financial gains. Identity thieves obtain personal data—like Social Security numbers and birthdates—from prior data breaches or dark-web brokers, then use that information to file false tax returns and intercept funds. Not only does this put your money at risk, but it can also trigger months of time-consuming recovery work once the IRS flags irregularities.
Scammers are starting earlier this year—sending fake IRS emails, texts, and social posts as soon as January, long before many legitimate filings even begin. These messages often look “official,” using IRS logos, government-style language, and even fake case numbers to trick taxpayers into clicking malicious links or revealing more data.
Common Tax Scams in 2026
Scammers use a variety of deceptive tactics, including:
- Impersonating the IRS or tax software in email and text messages. The IRS never emails or texts to request personal information, yet fraudsters use that pretense to collect your data or deliver malware.
- Fake tax preparers promise huge refunds, often charging based on the refund amount and then disappearing after submitting a fraudulent return.
- “Ghost preparers” who prepare a return but never sign it, leaving the filer legally responsible for mistakes or fraud.
- AI-assisted impersonation, where scammers use advanced tools to mimic real communication styles and even fabricate convincing voice calls.
Steps Every Filer Should Take
No one is immune, but there are smart ways to protect yourself:
- File early—one of the best defenses is early filing. Once your legitimate return is accepted, it’s much harder for someone else to beat you to it.
- Get an IRS identity PIN (IP PIN)—a six-digit code available to anyone with a Social Security number that helps prevent unauthorized returns from being filed in your name.
- Avoid unsolicited messages—ignore unexpected emails, texts, or social media messages claiming to be the IRS. The agency rarely initiates contact electronically.
- Use strong security—enable multi-factor authentication for any tax or financial accounts —and safeguard your devices with updated security software.
What to Do If You’re Targeted
If you receive an IRS notice saying a return was already filed under your SSN, don’t panic—but act quickly. The IRS has an Identity Theft Central section with resources to report fraud and start recovery. Victims may need to verify their identity and amend or refile returns, but early action can limit long-term damage. Having proactive restoration services in place can also help mitigate the damage and facilitate recovery with professional assistance.
With LibertyID’s Proactive Detection, including continuous monitoring and instant alerts, you can act quickly to stop identity theft or fraud before it causes serious damage. But when identity theft strikes, people need more than a solution—they need someone they can trust. LibertyID delivers “peace of mind restoration” with every call, helping clients move from stress to strength.