If you’ve recently received a text message claiming the IRS is sending you a $1,400 rebate, don’t fall for it—it’s a scam. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning taxpayers about a surge in fraudulent texts designed to steal personal and financial information.
Scammers are sending messages that appear to be from the IRS, telling recipients they qualify for a $1,400 rebate. The text usually includes a link, directing people to a fake website that looks official. Once there, victims are asked to enter sensitive details like their Social Security number, bank account information, or other personal data.
How Scammers Are Tricking People
The timing of this scam isn’t random. Recently, the IRS announced it would issue legitimate payments of up to $1,400 to about one million taxpayers who missed out on previous stimulus checks. Those real payments were automatically sent to eligible recipients, with no action required.
Scammers are taking advantage of this news, making their fake messages seem more believable. Many people who missed earlier payments may think they are owed money and rush to claim it—only to end up handing over their personal details to criminals.
How to Avoid Falling for This Scam
The IRS has made it clear: They do not send text messages about payments, refunds, or rebates. Any unexpected message claiming to be from the IRS should be treated as suspicious.
Here’s how you can protect yourself:
- Ignore and delete the message. If you receive a text about a $1,400 rebate, do not respond or click any links.
- Verify through official sources. Visit IRS.gov or call the IRS directly to check if you are eligible for any payments.
- Don’t share personal information. The IRS will never ask for sensitive details through text messages or emails.
- Report suspicious messages. Forward scam texts to [email protected] and report them to the BBB at BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Stay Alert—More Scams Are on the Rise
As tax season continues, scammers will try even harder to trick people. Being cautious and knowing how the IRS actually communicates with taxpayers can help you avoid costly mistakes.
If you ever have doubts about a message claiming to be from the IRS, take a step back and verify before taking any action. It could save you from becoming the next victim of a growing scam.
