NC attorney general warns of tax day scams targeting residents
RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Attorney General Jeff Jackson is warning North Carolinians to be on alert for scams on this Tax Day.
According to Jackson, scammers are increasing efforts to steal money and personal information, including through fake websites designed to look like official IRS pages.
He said those sites often promise unrealistic tax refunds to lure victims into entering sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, phone numbers and email addresses.
Jackson urged residents to take steps to protect themselves during tax season and throughout the year.
“Scammers often use the confusion and stress of tax season to take advantage of people,” Jackson wrote in the release. “It is important to do your research, and if something does not seem right, slow down and double-check the details.”
Officials say residents should guard their Social Security numbers, noting that identity thieves can use that information to open credit accounts, take out loans or steal tax refunds.
Jackson also warned about scam phone calls claiming to be from the IRS.
According to the attorney general, the IRS will not call people unexpectedly, demand immediate payment or request payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers or money orders.
Authorities also cautioned residents to watch for signs of tax refund theft. If someone receives notice that more than one tax return was filed in their name, they should respond immediately using official IRS contact information and complete an identity theft affidavit.
Jackson said people with questions about tax filings should verify information directly with the IRS or the North Carolina Department of Revenue.
Anyone who believes they may have been the victim of a tax scam is encouraged to contact the North Carolina Department of Justice or file a complaint online.
