Most of us have gotten the message about "phishing" as it applies to mass e-mails sent to get folks to give out bank and credit card info to thieves hoping to snag a few unsuspecting victims.
Their latest approach is to use one of our biggest fears as bait -- an IRS audit.
KraftCPA sent me a sample of the e-mails these folks are sending out:
----Original Message----- From: Internal Revenue ServiceDate: Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:17:18
Subject: Audit and Examination procedure scheduled
After reviewing your latest Tax declaration forms, our office decided to schedule an Audit and Examination procedure of your tax declaration and income forms. In order to view the date scheduled for your Audit and necessary documents for Examination, as well as a list of IRS officers, please visit . . .
It goes on to tell you your "rights" and explains audits using language from actual IRS documents. It all looks rather official. The phishing e-mail will end with something like this:
Examination Methods An examination may be conducted by mail or through an in-person interview and review of the taxpayer's records. The interview may be at an IRS office (office audit) or at the taxpayer's home, place of business, or accountant's office (field audit). Taxpayers may make audio recordings of interviews, provided they give the IRS advance notice. If the time, place, or method that the IRS schedules is not convenient, the taxpayer may request a change, including a change to another IRS office if the taxpayer has moved or business records are there. You are courteously advised to review the information provided (attached) and to contact your local IRS office if you require further assistance.
The IRS does not send out unsolicited e-mails or ask for detailed personal and financial information. Additionally, the IRS never asks people for the PIN numbers, passwords or similar secret access information for their credit card, bank or other financial accounts.
If you get an e-mail like this, DO NOT OPEN THE ATTACHMENT!! Instead, forward the e-mails to phishing@irs.gov (visit the IRS website for specific instructions).
These e-mails often target small business owners, as they are the most common targets of IRS audits.
