Spot Scams This Tax Season: Tips to Stay Safe

Hey, there — Josiah, founder of Dakota IT Solutions, here. I'm glad you're here.

During tax season accountants are working overtime—and so are scammers.

But don’t worry—we’ve got your back.

Here are a few tips to spot scams this tax season and stay safe:

Did you receive a weird message from an old contact? Let’s say you get an unexpected email or text from an old coworker or even your accountant. Seems legit, right? Scammers often impersonate people you trust, so if it feels off, verify before responding.

Are you being asked for personal information? If someone requests sensitive details like your Social Security number, banking info, or login credentials—pause. Legitimate organizations won’t ask for this stuff out of the blue.

Did someone send a random link to your inbox? Don’t click it. Phishing emails often contain links that look real but lead to fake websites designed to steal your credentials. If you’re unsure, go directly to the official website instead.

Are you feeling rushed? Scammers want you to panic and act fast. They’ll say things like, “Your account will be locked in 24 hours!” or “You owe immediate payment to the IRS!” Take a breath—legitimate organizations don’t communicate this way.

Still not sure if it’s real? Trust but verify. If you get a sketchy message from a company or person you know, don’t reply. Instead, reach out using a verified contact method—like their official website or a phone number you already have saved.

The best defense is a little skepticism. If something feels off, it probably is. And if you ever need a second opinion (or just want to talk IT security), I’m here to help.

Stay safe and stress-free this tax season!