Tax season has begun. Learn how to recognize and avoid the scams that target taxpayers. Be wary of any telephone or email messages claiming to be from the IRS, especially those demanding immediate payment, or requesting your personal information, including your Social Security number or username and password for e-filing. The IRS will never send an email requesting that you download, upload, or access your tax transcripts. Remember, the IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers through email, text messages, or social media channels to request personal or financial information.

The agency has previously warned university students and employees of an ongoing impersonation email scam targeting educational institutions. These fraudulent messages display the IRS logo and feature subject lines like “Tax Refund Payment” and “Recalculation of your tax refund payment.” If you receive a suspicious email, do not click on any links or open or save attachments. You can report scams to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov. For help with information security-related issues at Cornell, you can also contact itsecurity@cornell.edu.

For more information and helpful tips, visit these trusted sites:

• IRS.gov: Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts
• IRS.gov: Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft
• IRS.gov: Protect Personal Information Online
• CISA.gov: Cybersecurity Best Practices
• Identity Theft Resource Center: Tax Identity Theft
• National Cybersecurity Alliance: Tax Season Security Tips