π¨ Alert, New Yorkers! Scammers are at it again, this time targeting your hard-earned cash by impersonating the New York State Tax Department and the IRS. They’re using the state’s inflation refund checks initiative to trick you into handing over your banking info. π±
Here’s how the scam works:
You might receive a text, voice message, email, or even snail mail claiming that your ‘inflation refund’ has been processed and approved. To receive your money (anywhere from $150 to $400, depending on your income and filing status), you’re told to provide your banking details by a specific date β September 19, 2025, in this case. They even threaten that you’ll lose your refund if you don’t comply.
But here’s the catch:
The refund process is automatic. You don’t need to do anything extra, not even provide your banking info. So, any message asking for it is a red flag!
Governor Kathy Hochul has a message for you:
“Listen up, New Yorkers! The Tax Department and the IRS never call or text you for personal information. Stay sharp, and if you spot a scam, report it to the Tax Department immediately. Let’s not make it easy for these crooks!”
Scammers love using current events to trick you:
Tax season, major sports events, holidays β they’ll use anything to make their scams seem legitimate. So, always be on guard!
Stay safe, New York!
π Don’t click on suspicious links or download attachments.
π Don’t respond to messages asking for personal or banking info.
π§ Don’t trust messages with urgent deadlines or threatening language.
π If you suspect a scam, report it to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance at (518) 530-HELP (4357).
And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! π
