How to Protect Yourself From Tax and Romance Fraud in 2026
- Marc Lowe
- Mar 17
- 5 min read
I was checking my bank account that my wife and I share, and saw a small Tinder charge to our checking account. At first, my heart stopped as I pondered what this could be about. I phoned my wife, who picked up and explained how she had no idea what that was about. We checked the login credentials, and although the account had been hibernating for 15 years (long before we met)... it was reset in the last 24 hours by a computer in Bangladesh.
Now this was a simple hacker getting into an account, but there are whole documentaries on much worse cases than this, and it does not seem to be getting better... Things are getting so bad that the IRS had to come out with the..
IRS impersonation via email, text, and DMs, often using alarming language, fake QR codes, and links that install malware or steal personal information.
AI‑enabled IRS phone scams, including spoofed caller ID, robocalls, and voice‑mimicking systems pretending to be IRS agents.
Fake charities exploiting disasters or tragedies to steal donations and personal data; only IRS‑recognized nonprofits qualify for tax‑deductible gifts.
Misleading tax advice on social media, pushing false credits, fabricated filings, or viral “tax hacks” that lead to audits, penalties, or criminal exposure.
Identity theft targeting IRS Online Accounts, including scammers posing as helpers during account setup to steal sensitive information.
Abusive Form 2439 long‑term capital gains schemes, involving overstated or fabricated refundable credits tied to fake or misrepresented investment entities.
Bogus “Self‑Employment Tax Credit” promotions, encouraging taxpayers to claim credits they don’t qualify for to generate improper refunds.
Ghost preparers who complete returns but refuse to sign or provide a PTIN, leaving taxpayers legally responsible for fraudulent filings.
Inflated non‑cash charitable contribution schemes, including abusive conservation easements or art appraisals promising unrealistic tax reductions.
Overstated withholding scams, where taxpayers are coached to fabricate wage or withholding data to claim inflated refunds.
Spear‑phishing and malware attacks on tax professionals, using fake “new client” or “document request” emails to steal data or access systems.
Aggressive or misleading Offer in Compromise marketing, where “OIC mills” overpromise tax‑debt relief and charge high fees to taxpayers who don’t qualify.
Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated on dating apps and social media.
AI‑generated voices, deepfake videos, and emotionally manipulative scripts are now part of their toolkit.
The good news: Awareness and preparation go a long way. Let’s walk through what’s happening, how these scams work, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Rise of AI‑Powered Tax Scams
In January, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned of a “big wave” of tax‑related phone scams. Fraudsters are impersonating IRS agents, government officials, or even members of the fictional “Tax Resolution Oversight Department.” Their goal is simple: scare you into paying money you don’t owe.
These calls often sound eerily real. That’s because scammers are using AI to generate professional‑sounding voices and scripts. Some even scrape the Internet for personal details—your address, workplace, or in rare cases, the last four digits of your Social Security number—to make the call feel legitimate.
But here’s the key:
The IRS will never call, text, email, or message you on social media.
If there’s a real issue with your taxes, they send a physical letter. Always.
Scammers typically demand payment through non‑refundable methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers—methods no government agency would ever use. They rely on urgency and fear to override your logic.
If you get one of these calls, hang up. Don’t engage. Don’t call back. Just delete the message.
If you want peace of mind, you can always call the IRS directly using the number on their official website—not the one from the voicemail.
Romance Scams: When Fraudsters Target the Heart
Tax scams aren’t the only threat on the rise. Romance scams have surged dramatically. According to the new 2025 FTC data:
More than 11,200 people reported romance‑related losses in Q3 2025, with a median loss of $2,218 per victim. And that’s likely underreported due to embarrassment.
These scams often begin on dating apps or social media. Fraudsters create fake profiles—sometimes using AI‑generated images, deepfake videos, or clips from Cameo—to impersonate attractive strangers, influencers, or even celebrities.
They build trust through constant messaging, love‑bombing, and emotional connection. Then comes the “crisis”:
They need money to travel to see you
They’re stuck overseas
A family member is sick
They need help accessing an inheritance
And just like tax scammers, they ask for payment through untraceable methods: crypto, gift cards, offshore accounts. Some even ask for your bank information directly.
If this happens, cut contact immediately and block the profile.
How to Protect Yourself (and Others)
Here are practical steps to stay safe:
1. Slow down—urgency is the scammer’s greatest weapon
Whether it’s fear (IRS) or affection (romance scams), fraudsters push you to act fast. Your best defense is to act slow.
2. Talk to someone you trust
A friend, family member, or financial professional can spot red flags you might miss when emotions are high.
3. Do your homework
Search their name. Check for inconsistencies. Reverse‑image‑search their photos. If someone is who they say they are, their digital footprint should match their story.
4. Lock down your digital presence
Make social media profiles private
Use unknown‑number blockers
Avoid sharing personal details publicly
If scammers can’t reach you, they can’t manipulate you.
5. Remember: You are not immune
Scams affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and education levels. Fraudsters are professionals. Their scripts are tested. Their technology is improving. Staying skeptical is a strength, not paranoia.
The Bottom Line
Scammers aren’t new—but their tools are evolving. AI has simply given them a louder megaphone and a more convincing mask. The best defense is awareness, skepticism, and a willingness to slow down before acting.
If something feels off, trust that instinct.
If someone pressures you, step back. And if you’re ever unsure, reach out.
You’re not alone in this.
About the Author
Marc Lowe, CFP® is a fee-only fiduciary advisor based in Waterford, CT, helping pre-retirees & small business owners make smarter financial decisions.
The information presented in this article is the opinion of the author and does not reflect the views of any other person or entity unless specified. The information provided is believed to be reliable and obtained from reliable sources, but no liability is accepted for inaccuracies. The information provided is for informational purposes and should not be construed as advice. Advisory services offered through In The Money Retirement, an investment adviser registered with the state of Connecticut. The information linked to on third-party sites is being provided strictly as a courtesy and convenience. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. When you access these websites, you are leaving our website and assume any and all responsibility and risk for use of the web sites you are visiting.The tax and estate planning information offered by the advisor is general in nature. It is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.
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