How far will scammers go to dupe us? Apparently, as far as impersonating the IRS for a quick buck!
At a Glance
- Scammers charge up to $300 for an EIN, which the IRS offers for free.
- The Federal Trade Commission warns about false IRS affiliation claims.
- EIN applications are free on the official IRS site and completed quickly.
- Similar scams exploit Trusted Traveler Programs like TSA PreCheck.
- FTC addresses these scams through consumer warnings and letters.
IRS Impersonation Scams: A Ridiculous Fraud
Folks, ever felt like you’ve walked into a bad infomercial? Welcome to the bizarre world of IRS impersonation scams. These cons exploit the need for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) by cloaking themselves in IRS-like logos and seals, only to charge unsuspecting victims up to $300 for a service the IRS offers for free. Ridiculous? Absolutely. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has spotlighted these fraudulent sites, alerting the public to their deceitful tactics.
Read: These Websites Demanding a Fee for Your Employer Identification Number Are a Scam
Such scams not only erode the trust in governmental processes but also drain your pockets for no good reason. An EIN, a pivotal number for businesses, estates, and nonprofits, should not be a vehicle for deceit. These scammers neglect to disclose their lack of affiliation with the IRS, hoping their IRS-like appearance suffices to mislead.
Deceptive Practices in Government Services
The cunning extends beyond just EINs. Fraudsters have ventured into the realm of Trusted Traveler Programs, promoting fake fees for services like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. While these programs have fees, it’s the bait of additional, unneeded costs that ensnares many. Thankfully, the FTC isn’t just sitting idly by; they’re proactively sending warning letters to these extortionate fraudsters.
The FTC warns consumers to navigate cautiously, urging them to verify websites’ authenticity before engaging in transactions. Official IRS tools, like their EIN Assistant, assure that applying for an EIN is free and quick, taking less than 15 minutes.
Safeguarding Your Interests
Don’t let scammers feast on your naïveté and hard-earned money. Ensure you’re only using sanctioned government websites for functional services. Apply for an EIN for free directly through the IRS’s official online platforms and sidestep the thieving middlemen.
Be diligent—research companies’ reputations, review feedback, and keep the FTC’s guidance in mind. If you come across imposters posing as government entities online, swiftly report them to the FTC through their reporting platform, ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Vigilance and informed action are your best armor in this fraud-filled era.
