If you receive a text message claiming you’re eligible for a $1,400 stimulus check from the IRS, do not click any links—it’s a scam. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not send text messages or emails regarding stimulus payments.
Scammers are impersonating the IRS in an attempt to steal personal and financial information, warns the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
How the Fake IRS Stimulus Scam Works
- You receive a text message claiming you’re eligible for a $1,400 Economic Impact Payment.
- The message urges you to click a link to enter personal or banking details.
- The link mimics an official IRS website but actually leads to malware or phishing forms.
- Scammers create a sense of urgency, saying funds will be deposited within 1-2 business days.
Important: The IRS does NOT send texts, emails, or social media messages about stimulus payments.
Why This Scam Seems Believable
The scam plays on real IRS news:
- In December 2024, the IRS announced $2.4 million in stimulus payments for 1 million eligible taxpayers.
- Payments were for those who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns.
- These payments were automatic—recipients did not need to take action.
- The IRS sent official letters in December and January, and most payments have already arrived.
Key Difference: The real IRS payments required no action, while scammers demand personal details.
How to Protect Yourself from Fake IRS Texts
- Verify IRS Communications: The IRS only contacts taxpayers by postal mail—never by text or email.
- Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Instead, go directly to the official IRS website at IRS.gov.
- Watch for Urgency Tactics: Scammers pressure victims to act fast—take time to verify claims.
- Report IRS Scams: Forward suspicious messages to [email protected] and file a report at BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Stay Alert and Protect Your Information
- If you get a text about a $1,400 stimulus check—DO NOT RESPOND.
- Never provide your personal or banking details via text, email, or social media.
- When in doubt, visit IRS.gov to check for real updates.
