Published: November 02, 2008 01:37 am      

Beware of tax refund scam

E-mail can turn into empty bank account

blivingston@themeridianstar.com



It is said there is a sucker born every minute.

Roy Gibbens, however, is no sucker.

On Oct. 29, Gibbens, of Meridian, received an e-mail that at first glance makes the recipient believe it was sent by the IRS. The notice concerns a supposed tax refund. It instructs you how you can claim money the e-mail says is yours if you fill out the form.

This is a scam.

"I became suspicious from the start because there has been nothing on the news about another tax refund check to American citizens that had been approved," said Gibbens. "There's been talk of other types of incentives to stimulate the economy but nothing quite like this. Plus, it was via the Internet."

The e-mail cites alleged tax codes in an attempt to make everything seem official and legal. It even tells you how much you are entitled to if you continue to the next step. In Gibbens' case he was supposed to receive $120.50.

What may hook unsuspecting responders to the e-mail is the Web site you are asked to go to in order to fill out a form to claim your money. It is complete with the IRS logo and other visual indications this is the real deal. What really made the red light come on for Gibbens, however, was the type of information you were asked to enter and then send.

There are boxes for your social security number, credit card information including pin number and banking information. Things Gibbens figured the real IRS wouldn't need because they already know much of that information.

"I called the IRS and they confirmed this was a scam," said Gibbens. "They don't do business of this sort over the Internet."

The IRS asked Gibbens to send in the information he received so they can track the website, which he gladly did.

"I hate to think somebody might actually fall for this ruse," Gibbens said. "I just didn't feel right about not reporting this and getting the word out this scam is circulating out there."

Officials continually warn the general public to not give out important financial information through the Internet or by telephone until they are certain they are not being targeted by a scam artist. Asking questions and being wary of fantastic opportunities is the best way to not become a victim.