IRS – Themed Texting Scam

As a business owner, you’re probably no stranger to fraud attempts, whether it’s an email phishing scam or a phone call from someone posing as a bank representative. But have you heard of the IRS-themed texting scam? It’s the latest trick fraudsters use to steal your sensitive information and money. In this blog post, we’ll explain what the IRS-themed texting scam is and how you can protect your business from falling victim to it.

What is the IRS-themed texting scam?

The IRS-themed texting scam is a sophisticated phishing scam in which fraudsters send a text message (SMS) to your mobile phone, posing as IRS agents. The message usually informs you that you have a tax refund waiting for you, and all you need to do to claim it is to click on the included link and enter your personal and financial information. Once you provide the information, the fraudsters can use it to steal your money or commit identity theft.

How can you protect your business from the IRS-themed texting scam?

First and foremost, always be vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited SMS messages claiming to be from the IRS. Remember, the IRS will never contact you via unsolicited SMS or email, and they won’t threaten to have you arrested or deported over the phone. If you receive a text message that seems suspicious, don’t click on any links or reply to the message. Instead, call the IRS directly at their official phone number published on their website to verify the authenticity of the message.

Secondly, keep your personal and business information secure by using strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Don’t use common passwords like “password” or “123456,” and never share your passwords with anyone. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.

Thirdly, use multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible, especially for your financial accounts. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code or biometric authentication before allowing access to your account. This way, even if a fraudster manages to steal your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the MFA code or biometric identifier.

Finally, educate your employees about the risks of phishing scams and how to spot them. Provide training on how to identify suspicious text messages and how to report them to the IT department. Encourage your employees to report any suspicious activity to your IT department immediately, even if it seems like a minor issue.

The IRS-themed texting scam is a real threat to your business, and taking steps to protect yourself from it is essential. Remember to be vigilant, use strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, and educate your employees about the risks of phishing scams. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to this scam and keep your business and personal information secure.