Fake SMS text messages, known as “Smishing,” attempt to collect personal information. Smishing scams appear to be from trusted companies, government agencies, and charities.
Did you know every year, the IRS releases a list of “Dirty Dozen” tax scams? The scams on the 2025 IRS Dirty Dozen list can be encountered at any time during the year, but they peak during regular and extended tax seasons. The IRS’s Dirty Dozen list is more than a warning—it’s a call to action.
Awareness of these scams is important, but it’s only half the battle. The real work lies in spotting the red flags and reporting scams appropriately. Below are some red flags, tips to avoid falling for a “Smishing” attempt, and how to report the scams sent to you!
Red Flags:
- Big payday: too good to be true, probably is
- Demands/threats: pay “now or else”
- Expressions of urgency, telling you to take action NOW
- Links: Unexpected, odd, or misspelled links
Tips:
- Slow Down: Use caution with unexpected messages and links
- Protect Yourself: Never send money or share personal information
- Go to the source: use a known URL or phone number to verify the sender
The IRS will NOT:
- Contact you or take payment on social media
- Accept gift cards or prepaid debit cards as payment
- Threaten to call law enforcement or immigration officials
Where to Report Text Scams:
- Report IRS-related scams to phishing@irs.gov
- Report other fraud scams to the FBI at www.ic3.gov
- If you or someone you know is an Arvest customer and has interacted with the text message, send a notification to ReportFraud@arvest.com
For more information about IRS tax scams, visit the Dirty Dozen. Additional information related to fraud and scams can be found on the FBI site: Common Frauds and Scams.
By staying informed and cautious, you can better protect yourself from falling victim to deceptive schemes during tax season and all year round.