In 2025, tax season isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s also a time when cybercriminals ramp up their game with AI and deepfake tech. What used to be obvious scams have turned into sophisticated operations that can fool even the most careful among us. So, let’s talk about how you can protect yourself and your hard-earned money.
These scams have evolved from poorly written emails to AI-generated phishing messages and deepfake videos that look and sound incredibly real. The IRS reported over $37 billion in tax-related crimes in 2023, showing just how serious this issue has become. AI helps scammers craft personalized, believable attacks, often impersonating trusted entities like the IRS or tax professionals.
According to Casey Ellis from Bugcrowd, there’s been a significant increase in AI-driven scams during tax season. Adam Khan from Barracuda highlights a 150% rise in fake IRS calls using voice cloning tech. It’s not just individuals who are targeted; businesses and tax professionals face sophisticated spear-phishing attacks. Alain Constantineau from Hornetsecurity warns of scammers impersonating key personnel to steal sensitive info.
Scammers are also creating synthetic identities, mixing real and fake data to file fraudulent tax returns. James Turgal from Optiv notes that organized crime groups and foreign adversaries are exploiting these tactics. Deepfake videos and AI chatbots can impersonate tax advisors, making fake promises or threatening legal action to provoke quick decisions. Dustin Brewer from BlueVoyant points out that traditional scam indicators are becoming less reliable, so we need to be more cautious than ever.
Often, victims realize they’ve been scammed only after the damage is done, whether through unauthorized credit activities or disrupted business operations. Khan mentions that ransomware attacks on businesses, especially small ones, are becoming more common during tax season. Ira Winkler from CYE emphasizes that skepticism is your first line of defense.
So, what can you do? First, remember that the IRS won’t contact you by phone, email, or text. If you get such a message, treat it with suspicion and verify through official channels. Consider getting an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) for added security. Freezing your credit and using multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all tax-related accounts are also smart moves. Strong, unique passwords managed by a password manager can further enhance your security.
Make sure to encrypt and securely store sensitive documents, and shred any outdated physical documents. Be mindful of how much personal information you share on social media, and conduct regular security audits. Staying informed through trusted cybersecurity resources will help you stay ahead of evolving threats.
In the end, while AI and deepfake technologies have given scammers powerful tools, they still rely on human error. As Chad Cragle from Deepwatch says, cybersecurity is all about consistent attention and smart decision-making. Tax season should be a straightforward time to wrap up your finances, not a period of stress and uncertainty. By staying vigilant and skeptical of anything that seems too good to be true, you can keep your tax refunds safe.
