Tax season is stressful enough without the added worry of fraudsters trying to steal your personal information, refund, or even your identity. Unfortunately, 2026 is shaping up to be a record year for sophisticated tax scams, driven by AI, fake IRS messages, and increasingly deceptive social engineering tactics.
To help protect you, Midwest Bank has identified the top tax scams you need to watch for in the 2026 filing season.
1. Fake IRS Emails, Texts & Social Media Messages (Phishing + Smishing)
Scammers are sending messages that look convincingly real, complete with IRS logos, government‑style formatting, and even QR codes. These messages claim you must “verify your account,” “fix a refund issue,” or “avoid penalties” and link to fake IRS portals designed to steal your Social Security number, bank credentials, or tax login information.
What to remember:
- The IRS does not first contact taxpayers by email, text, or direct message.
- Never click unsolicited links, QR codes, or attachments claiming to be from the IRS.
2. AI‑Powered IRS Phone Scams
Phone scams aren’t new, but the technology behind them is. Criminals now use AI voice cloning, spoofed caller IDs, and convincing robocalls to impersonate IRS agents. These calls often demand immediate payment, threaten arrest, or pressure you into providing sensitive information.
Red flags:
- Threats of legal action or arrest
- Demands for immediate payment
- Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
The IRS will always send a written notice before calling and will never demand instant payment.
3. “Refund Issue” or “Account Verification” Scam Messages
Cybercriminals know you’re eager for your refund, so they send highly convincing alerts claiming your refund is delayed. These messages link to fake government, bank, or tax‑preparation websites designed to capture personal and financial data.
If you receive a refund‑related message:
Go directly to IRS.gov or your tax provider’s official site, never rely on a link sent to you.
4. Fake Charities Exploiting Crises
Scammers create fraudulent charities around natural disasters or major events to collect “donations.” These operations steal both money and personal information, putting taxpayers at risk of identity theft.
How to stay safe:
Verify any charity using the IRS’s Tax Exempt Organization Search before donating.
5. Misleading Social Media Tax Advice
TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms are packed with viral “tax hacks” promising inflated refunds or credits most taxpayers don’t qualify for. Following this misinformation can lead to audits, penalties, delayed refunds, or criminal liability.
Rule of thumb:
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always rely on trusted tax professionals.
6. Ghost Tax Preparers
A “ghost preparer” files your return but refuses to sign it or include their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), which is illegal. Many of these individuals inflate refunds, invent income, or falsify credits to steal part of the refund or charge high fees.
Always choose a preparer who:
- Signs your return
- Provides their PTIN
- Has verifiable credentials and reviews
7. Refund Fraud & Identity Theft
Scammers increasingly use stolen personal data to file fraudulent tax returns before legitimate taxpayers do. Victims often discover the fraud only after the IRS rejects their return as a “duplicate.”
Tip:
File early whenever possible to reduce the window of opportunity for fraudsters.
How Midwest Bank Helps Protect You
At Midwest Bank, your security matters. We continuously monitor fraud trends and share updates to help our customers stay safe. During tax season, remain extra cautious with emails, calls, or messages regarding your taxes, refunds, or IRS accounts.
If you ever receive a suspicious message or believe your bank information may have been compromised, contact Midwest Bank immediately.
Stay Vigilant & Stay Secure This Tax Season
Tax scams are getting more sophisticated, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can protect your identity, your refund, and your peace of mind. Bookmark this guide and share it with family and friends; everyone can benefit from understanding the latest threats.