IRS: Michigan taxpayers need to watch out for new wave of COVID-19 scams as stimulus payments are delivered

DETROIT – Michigan taxpayers should watch out for a new wave of COVID-19 scams as the second round of stimulus payments are delivered, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

“While scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their efforts, taxpayers can still act as the first line of defense using some of these tips,” Sarah Kull, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office said. “Taking some very basic precautions could mean protection against a potentially costly scam.”

• New COVID-19 scams to watch out for
• Better Business Bureau warns of COVID-19 vaccine scams
• Scammers using excitement surrounding COVID-19 vaccine to target Michigan residents
• Homeland Security on alert for COVID vaccine scams: Here are red flags to watch for
• Be cautious: Experts warn of potential stimulus check scams

The best way to avoid falling for a scam is to be aware that the IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails.

THe IRS does not call people and threaten jail time or lawsuits -- it doesn’t demand tax payments via gift cards.

Scams can be reported to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or reported online.