Scammers never rest — and when tax season arrives, they shift into overdrive. **Smishing** (SMS phishing) is rising. Fraudsters send texts posing as the IRS, claiming overdue taxes or refund delays — often with malicious links. Let’s break down what to watch for and how to protect yourself.

What Is Smishing?

Smishing is “SMS phishing”: deceptive text messages designed to trick you into giving personal or financial info. Unlike email phishing, these messages arrive by SMS and may appear more immediate and urgent.

How Scammers Use It

• Claims you owe back taxes or face penalties.
• “Refund stalled” or “IRS account issue” messages urging you to click a link.
• Requests to confirm personal info (SSN, bank account) via reply.
• Fake phone numbers using local area codes to increase legitimacy.

Tips to Protect Yourself

• Never click on links in unsolicited texts claiming to be from the IRS.
• Verify sender phone numbers independently (not via the text itself).
• Forward suspicious texts to the IRS at **[email protected]**.
• Don’t provide personal or financial info via SMS.
• Use multi-factor authentication on tax accounts and email.
• File early — fewer opportunities for criminals to impersonate you.

If you’ve received a suspicious tax-related text or fear you may have been targeted, contact Grants Pass Tax Service. We’ll help you assess the risk and secure your information.