Cybercriminals are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal personal and financial information, and two recent scams are especially concerning: fake CAPTCHA verification screens and fraudulent IRS notices.
You may encounter a fake “I’m not a robot” box while browsing online that appears legitimate but is designed to trick you into installing malware. Some scams prompt users to complete unusual keyboard commands, such as opening a Run command window and pasting copied text. Doing so can install malicious software that captures passwords, banking credentials, and other sensitive information.
Scammers are also sending fake IRS notices, including phony letters claiming there was an issue with a direct deposit refund. These notices often create a sense of urgency and may direct recipients to scan a QR code, click a suspicious link, or provide banking information through a fraudulent website.
How to protect yourself::
- Be cautious of websites asking you to perform unusual keyboard shortcuts or paste commands into your computer
- Never provide sensitive financial information through links or QR codes in unexpected notices
- Verify that any IRS communication is legitimate before taking action
- If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts and pause before clicking
If you receive an IRS notice and are unsure whether it is legitimate, you can contact The Royce CPA Firm and we can help review it with you. You can also log in to your Internal Revenue Service online account to verify notices, balances due, payments, and other account activity directly linked to your tax records.
Protecting your financial well-being extends beyond tax preparation. A quick verification can help prevent fraud, identity theft, and costly mistakes.