How to protect yourself from tax refund scams

Financial milestones like receiving a tax refunds are so much more than a balance increase or account update. They represent the fruit of your labor and a chance at expanding new possibilities for what comes next for you. Whether it is a long awaited home project, new tv/appliance, backyard renovation, weekend getaway, summer vacation, a downpayment for a new car, or simply a boost to your savings account, these moments are the building blocks for the future you are creating. Our mission is centered on helping to uplift people, and that starts with ensuring your hard-earned wins are not compromised by those fraudsters and scammers looking to take advantage.

Unfortunately, tax season is also peak season for fraudsters.  They want to interrupt your progress and steal the security you have worked so hard to build. When we work together to identify and stop these scams, we are not just protecting bank accounts. We are strengthening communities and protecting our members from fraud an financial loss.

Recognizing the Seasonal Red Flags

Scammers are clever, but they usually rely on the same few tricks. Staying vigilant means knowing what to look for.

1. The Urgent IRS Impersonator: You get a call or text claiming you owe immediate back taxes. Official agencies almost always communicate through the mail first and will never demand payment via gift cards.
2. Bonus Verification Phishing: An email that looks like it is from your payroll department asks you to log in to a new portal. Always check the sender’s address carefully and call your internal team to verify.
3. The Ghost Tax Preparer: Someone offers to file your taxes for a fee based on the size of your refund. If they will not sign your return as the preparer, they are not legitimate.

Shielding Your Success

Uplifting your financial health means taking proactive steps to stay in the driver’s seat.

1. File Taxes Early and Don’t File Late: File early to prevent identity thieves from using your information first to file before you complete a Tax filing,
2. Choose Electronic Direct Deposit for Tax Refunds: Use direct deposit, because it is more secure than paper checks in a mailbox.
3. Enable Two Factor Authentication (2FA): Build a wall against hackers. Most digital platforms now support this security feature within your account settings or profile security settings. To enable two factors for login (authentication), you can choose to receive a unique code through an authenticator app or an SMS text message sent directly to your mobile phone.
4. Always Be Vigilant: Be skeptical of anyone promising fast cash or hidden loopholes for a high fee.

Closing the Gap on Fraud

By staying vigilant and informed, you are doing more than just guarding a check. You are helping to secure yourself and your family from any attempts of fraud. We are dedicated to helping to uplift people by providing the clarity needed to navigate this upcoming tax season with confidence. When we share these tips, we are seeking to strengthen communities and protect our members from scams, fraud and potential financial loss.

You can share helpful safety tips on social media, talk to a neighbor about a recent consumer alert, or even plan your own event to celebrate the week. The focus remains on three key pillars:

• Avoid Scams: Stay informed to stop fraud before it starts.
• Report Scams: Share your experience to help officials track and stop criminals.
• Recover from Scams: Access resources to help you get back on track if you are targeted.

Take action and report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Help Prevent the Scams this April.

Don’t let a scammer ruin your April. Stay vigilant, stay skeptical, and keep your personal info private. If you see something suspicious, do not hesitate to reach out. Contact our support team immediately.

• Freeze your card instantly using the Mirastar Mobile App.
• Contact Member Support directly at (800) 282-6212 or (408) 282-0700.
• Report the fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov (https://reportfraud.ftc.gov) to help protect the rest of our community.