ShooFlyIRS Tax Refund Text Scam
A text says the IRS owes you a refund and to claim it before it expires. The IRS never texts about refunds: the link collects your Social Security number and bank details.
What It Looks Like
IRS: You are eligible for a tax refund of $1,284.50. Claim your refund before it expires: [link removed]
The wording, amounts and company change, but the pattern stays the same.
How to Tell It's Fake
- The IRS never texts about refunds. It contacts people by mail.
- Refunds don't expire in a few days.
- Check your refund only at irs.gov, typed in yourself.
How to Check for Real
Check a real refund only with Where's My Refund at irs.gov, typed in yourself. Never use the link or phone number in the message.
If You Already Tapped or Paid
- Freeze your credit with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. It's free, and stops anyone opening accounts in your name.
- Report it at IdentityTheft.gov, which gives you a recovery plan.
- If you gave your Social Security number, get an IRS Identity Protection PIN at irs.gov to block tax fraud.
Acting in the first hour gives you the best chance of stopping charges.
Report It
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM). It goes to your phone carrier, who uses it to block the sender.
- Report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Then delete it, and block the number.
Not Sure About a Text?
ShooFly checks any text, letter, link or caller in seconds, right on your phone, and tells you what to do next. It also sends scam texts like this one to Junk before you see them. Free.