Refund scams involve fraudsters that are using stolen tax information to file fraudulent tax refunds. These are then deposited into a stolen client’s account, and then moved to a cybercriminal posing as an IRS agent. The fake agent then informs the client that the refund needs to be returned.

Warning Signs

• Contacted by an individual claiming they are contacting you to recover money, merchandise, or prizes you never received as long as you pay an advancement fee.
• Asked to wire money.
• Asked to receive/send funds from/to another party.

What if you’re a victim?

• If you’ve been scammed, contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and file a complaint online or call their Toll Free hotline at 1.877.FTC.HELP (382.4357). Craigslist also recommends calling the local police for any scams that take place in person.
• Cut off all contact with the scammer immediately.