In the third article of our IRS Dirty Dozen tax scam series, we look at how scammers pose as helpful IRS account assistants to steal your personal information.
Welcome back to our 2025 Dirty Dozen series, where we break down the IRS’s list of top tax scams—one shady tactic at a time. In our last post, we tackled the wild world of bad tax advice on social media. This time, we’re locking down our passwords and sharpening our scam radar for #3: Fake IRS Online Account Assistance.
“I’m from the IRS, and I’m here to help…”
…said no scammer honestly, ever.
These crooks are targeting taxpayers trying to set up an IRS Online Account—the legitimate tool where you can view tax balances, notices, and more. Unfortunately, scammers are swooping in by offering “help” through unsolicited texts, emails, or social media messages, pretending to walk you through the process.
What they really want is your personal information: Social Security number, filing status, and login credentials. Think of it as handing over your house keys and directions to your safe.
How the Scam Works:
- A message pops up in your inbox: “Need help creating your IRS account? Click here.”
- You’re taken to a slick (but fake) website or directed to send your info directly.
- Voilà—your data is now in the hands of a stranger with questionable morals and a laptop.
Real Talk: The IRS Doesn’t Slide into Your DMs
According to the IRS, they never initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text, or social media about online account setup. If someone’s reaching out this way, they’re not the IRS. They’re likely up to no good—and possibly wearing digital ski masks.
Don’t Let the Scammers Get the Upper Hand
Setting up your IRS Online Account is safe—as long as you go directly through IRS.gov. If you want help, work with a trusted tax professional or follow official instructions (there are even how-to videos from the IRS if you’re a visual learner).
And as always:
- Don’t click links in unsolicited messages.
- Don’t share sensitive info unless you’re 100% sure who’s asking.
- Don’t assume professionalism means legitimacy. Scammers have graphic design skills too.
In Conclusion: DIY or CPA, But Never a Random Guy on WhatsApp
Creating your IRS account is an important step in managing your taxes—but it should always start with the IRS itself, not someone claiming to be your “account concierge.” Keep your info safe, and don’t fall for the digital wolves in taxpayer clothing.
Stay tuned as we continue down the Dirty Dozen list in future articles.
More Information
If you have questions, contact us to discuss your situation.
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Andrew Labeaume
Andrew LaBeaume is a seasoned Tax Manager at Smith Patrick CPAs, based in Saint Louis, MO. Since beginning his career in 2002, Andrew has built extensive expertise in tax planning, preparation, and review of individual, business, and trust tax returns. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s in Accounting from the University of Central Florida, and is a certified public accountant (CPA). Andrew’s commitment to staying current with tax laws ensures top-notch compliance and tailored tax planning for his clients.
About Smith Patrick CPAs
Smith Patrick CPAs is a boutique, St. Louis-based, CPA firm dedicated to providing personal guidance on taxes, investment advice and financial service to forward-thinking businesses and financially active individuals. For over 30 years, our firm has focused on providing excellent service to business owners and high-net worth families across the country. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor.
