Tax season is prime time for scammers. Every year, fraudsters use phishing emails, fake IRS calls, and identity theft schemes to trick people out of their hard-earned money. Now, they’re even using artificial intelligence (AI) to make scams more convincing. As ‘Your Financial Partner for Life’, PNWFCU wants to help keep you safe.

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Common Tax Scams to Watch Out For:

Phishing Emails and Texts

• Scammers send messages claiming to be from the IRS or tax software providers.
• They often include links to fake websites designed to steal your personal information.

Fake IRS Phone Calls

• The IRS will never call you to demand immediate payment or threaten arrest.
• If you get a call like this, hang up and report it.

Identity Theft

• Criminals file fraudulent tax returns using stolen Social Security numbers.
• You may only discover this when your legitimate return is rejected.

AI-Powered Scams

• Fraudsters are now using AI to create highly convincing emails and even clone voices of trusted professionals like accountants.
• These scams can sound or look authentic, so always verify requests through official channels before sharing sensitive information.

How to Protect Yourself

• File Early: The sooner you file, the less chance scammers have to use your information.
• Use Secure Networks: Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing tax documents or filing online.
• Verify Before You Click: Don’t click on links in unsolicited emails or texts.
• Question Unusual Requests: If someone calls or emails asking for sensitive info—even if they sound familiar—confirm through official contact details.
• Monitor Your Accounts: Many tax scams involve phishing for banking credentials. Keep an eye on your credit union accounts for unusual activity. If you don’t already have Online Banking set up, it’s a great way to easily and securely keep tabs on your accounts. You can even set up alerts to immediately notify you of unusual activity!

Convenient & Secure Tax Filing

Did you know you can file your taxes directly through TurboTax in PNWFCU’s online and mobile banking? It’s a safe, easy way to prepare and submit your return, plus PNWFCU members who file through PNWFCU’s Online or Mobile Banking save 10%!* You’ll find a link to TurboTax in Online Banking (Money Management>TurboTax) or in our app (under ‘More’).

If You Fall Victim, Don’t Feel Ashamed

Scammers are getting more sophisticated every year, and anyone can be targeted. Falling for a scam doesn’t mean you weren’t careful, it means the fraudster was convincing. The most important thing is to act quickly:

• Report phishing attempts to [email protected].
• If you believe your identity has been stolen, visit identitytheft.gov for recovery steps.
• Contact us immediately – we’re here to help secure your accounts.

Stay informed, stay secure. Tax season should be about refunds, not regrets. For more tips on protecting your finances, visit our Fraud & Scam Resources page, or contact us anytime.

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*Limited time offer. Discount applies to TurboTax federal products only (no state products). Cannot be combined with other offers.