IRS Dirty Dozen Scams for 2025: What to Watch Out For (and How to Protect Yourself)

Let us get one thing straight:

Scammers aren't slowing down.

They're becoming slicker, faster, and frighteningly good at seeming like somebody you trust—especially now that AI can replicate voices, emails, and even your tax preparer's writing style.

The IRS is also aware of the situation.  That is why, each year, they issue a list of the largest, most hazardous scams aimed at ordinary taxpayers.

They call it the Dirty Dozen.

We refer to it as your annual heads-up.

Here's what to look out for in 2025, as well as how to avoid falling for it yourself or with others you care about.

Why This Matters (Even If You “Never Click Suspicious Links”)

You may think, "This could never happen to me."

But the data suggests different.

Scams are changing quickly.  And many are now geared to override your instincts. They do more than just fool you; they play you.  AI makes the deception more plausible.  Technology makes it more difficult to trace.  The IRS will not contact you first via phone, email, or text message.

So certainly, this essay is for you.

And your parents.  And your children.  And that friend who continues to use "123456" as their password.

2025’s Top Tax Scams (a.k.a. The Dirty Dozen)

1. AI-Generated Phishing Emails and Texts

The deadliest trend of the year?

AI is being used by scammers to create incredibly lifelike emails and texts that mimic your accountant, your tax software, or even the IRS.

Official-looking logos are among them.  personal information.  Clickable "portals" And just the right amount of urgency to make you act without hesitation.

Action item: Never click on links in unsolicited IRS correspondence.  Contact is never made by the IRS via text or email.  Always contact your tax professional or visit IRS.gov immediately.

2. Fake “Help with Refunds or Filing” Ads on Social Media

You're scrolling Instagram.  You see a sponsored ad that reads:

 "We can get you a $10K refund—even if you don't file taxes!"

Is this too good to be true?  Yep.

These pop-up "services" generate fraudulent returns using your information.  You might even get money—but

then the IRS takes it back (plus penalties).

To avoid issues, only cooperate with licensed and recognised tax professionals.  If your refund appears to be  excessive, enquire more.

3. Offer in Compromise Mills

An Offer in Compromise is a legal IRS program that allows taxpayers who owe large sums but are unable to pay in full to settle their debt for a lower amount.

However, unscrupulous businesses are taking advantage of it, guaranteeing sure forgiveness, demanding upfront payments, and then abandoning you.

If you owe the IRS, contact a tax professional who understands your entire situation, rather than a call centre that obtained your information from a debt list.

4. Fake Charities

Disaster hits.  The headlines hit.  Then there are the "charities" that seek for money via email, text, or even GoFundme.

Some are real.  Some are meticulously faked.

To donate, check the charity's status using the IRS Tax-Exempt Org Search.  Legitimate charity will not require gift cards or cryptocurrency donations.

5. ERC Scams (Employee Retention Credit)

Still going strong in 2025.  Scammers are continuously pushing bogus ERC claims, and some business owners are getting burned.

These third-party "ERC mills" make fraudulent claims on your behalf.  You receive money... then the IRS demands it back plus interest.

If someone assures you qualify without analysing your records, walk away.

6. Spear Phishing for Tax Pros

This one is geared for professionals.

Hackers use fraudulent IRS emails to get access to a tax professional's whole client file.

One click exposes all of your information.

Ask your tax preparer about their security protocols.  You deserve to know how your information is safeguarded.

7. Bogus Tax Advice on TikTok and YouTube

"Don't pay taxes—just start an LLC and write off everything."

That is not counsel.  That is bait.

And it is triggering to audits and penalties for many younger taxpayers.

To ensure accuracy, double-check your sources.  Just because someone has a microphone and a green screen  does not imply they comprehend the tax code.

8. Ghost Preparers

These "pros" will prepare your return but refuse to sign it.

Why?  Because what they are doing is illegal.  They falsify data, inflate credits, and disappear when the IRS comes calling.

Make sure your preparer signs the form and adds their PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number).  If they don't, just walk away.

9. Fake “IRS Agent” Phone Calls

Yes, this one is still around.  But it is now automated—and meaner than ever.

Scammers demand payment in gift cards or face jail time or asset seizure (instant legal action).  (This alone should be a red flag.)

What To Do:
Hang up.  Report the call to TIGTA.  Remember that the IRS does not call unexpectedly or demand money in this manner.

10. Fraudulent Tax Benefits Claims

Scammers are pushing false deductions, credits, and loopholes to increase returns, particularly for energy credits and education expenses.

If it sounds made-up, it most likely is.

Tips: Only make claims that can be documented.  If your tax preparer is "creative" in ways you don't comprehend, enquire why.

11. Social Security Number Spoofing

Hackers exploit stolen or assumed SSNs to file false returns before the legitimate taxpayer does.

Victims typically find out when the IRS rejects their actual return as "duplicate."

What to do: File early.  Consider obtaining  Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS.  Use multi-factor authentication with your tax software.

12. False Fuel Tax Credit Claims

This credit is only valid for off-highway business purposes (think farmers, not commuters).  However, scammers are still promoting it as a "hidden refund."

Avoid scams that claim the IRS owes you money for petrol.  Do not sign anything you don't understand.

Final Word: Be Suspicious. Be Skeptical. Be Smart.

You don't need to live in terror.  However, you must stay informed.

Here's the good news: scammers rely on confidentiality.

The more people you share this with, the more difficult it is for the bad guys to triumph.

Protect Yourself + Your Family:

• Share this article with someone who may be vulnerable (hi, elderly parents).
• Set up multi-factor authentication for all bank logins.
• Enquire with your tax professional about how they verify identification and preserve your data.
• Report any questionable activity to the IRS and FTC.gov.
• When in doubt, always pause and verify before clicking, paying, or disclosing personal information.

Need a Second Set of Eyes on Your Return or Setup?

We evaluate, file, and help defend against scams because it is our duty, not yours.

Let's discuss tactics before the next phishing email arrives.

Please contact our office to organise a strategy session.