Technology
Tax scams through the years and what to know this year
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Tax scams rarely stay the same for long. Each filing season brings new tactics designed to trick taxpayers into revealing personal information or claiming refunds they are not entitled to receive. In recent years, fraud tied to unemployment systems, stimulus payments and identity theft caught many taxpayers by surprise. Some people did not discover the problem until their legitimate tax return was rejected, or unexpected tax forms arrived in the mail.
Two years later, promoters marketed confusing credits such as the Employee Retention Credit to businesses that did not qualify, collecting fees to file improper claims. By 2025, misleading guidance spread widely on social media, encouraging taxpayers to misuse forms like 4136 or modify wage information through consumer tax software.
Each of these scams relies on confusion around tax rules and filing systems. Understanding how they work can help you spot red flags before submitting your return this year.
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IRS WARNS TAXPAYERS OF NEW MAILING REFUND SCAM
Tax scams have evolved from unemployment fraud to social media “tax hacks,” with the IRS warning of new threats for the 2026 filing season. (Michael Bocchieri/Getty Images)
2021 tax scams: Unemployment fraud and stimulus payment theft
In 2021, identity theft linked to unemployment programs created widespread tax problems. Criminals used stolen Social Security numbers to file benefit claims through state systems. Because unemployment income is taxable, Form 1099-G notices were sent to victims for payments they never received. The IRS advised taxpayers not to report fraudulent income and to contact the issuing state agency to correct the records.
Stimulus payments were also targeted. Scammers filed early tax returns using stolen personal data to claim Recovery Rebate Credits or redirect refunds. When legitimate filers later submitted their returns, some were rejected because a return tied to their Social Security number had already been processed. Federal agencies, including the FBI, warned of high levels of unemployment fraud during this period. The IRS also encouraged taxpayers to sign up for an Identity Protection PIN, which adds an extra layer of verification when filing.
Worried your SSN may have been stolen? Many tax fraud cases begin with data pulled from breaches. You can run a free scan with our top Identity Theft Protection pick to check whether your information appears in known data-leak records. The scan looks for matches tied to your email address and shows the results in real time. See my tips and best picks on Best Identity Theft Protection at Cyberguy.com.
2023 tax scam warning: Ghost preparers filing fraudulent returns
The IRS later flagged a rise in returns prepared by so-called ghost preparers. These individuals charge fees to prepare tax returns but refuse to sign them or include a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number. Under federal tax rules, anyone paid to prepare a return must sign it. When a preparer does not, the taxpayer, not the preparer, remains responsible for the filing.
In many flagged cases, ghost preparers inflated tax credits, fabricated income figures or altered withholding amounts to generate larger refunds. Some charged fees based on the size of the refund, which created an incentive to push questionable claims rather than follow tax rules.
2025 tax scams: Social media tax ‘hacks’ and improper filings
By 2025, misleading tax advice began circulating widely on short-form video platforms and social media. Some posts encouraged people to file Form 4136 to claim a fuel tax credit for gasoline used in personal vehicles. The IRS says this credit applies only to certain business and off-highway uses, not everyday driving. Filing the form improperly can trigger an IRS review.
Other posts instructed taxpayers to modify wage or withholding numbers inside consumer tax software to inflate refund amounts. The IRS has repeatedly warned that taxpayers remain responsible for the accuracy of their returns, regardless of where the advice originated. Filing incorrect income information or claiming unsupported credits can delay refunds and potentially lead to penalties.
ELON MUSK ALLEGES $50B IN FRAUD AT TREASURY AFTER JUDGE BLOCKS DOGE AUDIT
Identity theft and fraudulent tax filings remain top concerns for the Internal Revenue Service as criminals exploit confusion around credits and filing rules. (Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
2026 IRS warning: Tax scams expected this filing season
The IRS recently released its 2026 “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams it expects to circulate during the filing season. Phishing and text message scams remain among the most common threats. Scammers often impersonate the IRS or tax software companies and claim there is a refund issue or account problem in an attempt to collect Social Security numbers, bank details or login credentials.
The agency emphasizes that it does not initiate contact through email, text messages or social media to request sensitive information. The 2026 list also includes ghost preparers and misleading tax advice shared online, including content that pushes improper credit claims. Identity theft refund fraud remains part of the enforcement picture, with criminals filing returns using stolen data before legitimate taxpayers do.
How to protect yourself from tax scams
A few simple habits can reduce your risk during filing season.
1) Monitor your personal data and credit activity
Identity theft refund fraud remains a major concern. Criminals sometimes file tax returns using stolen personal information before the legitimate taxpayer submits theirs. Because many tax fraud cases begin with personal data exposed in breaches, keeping track of where your information appears online can help you catch warning signs earlier.
Identity theft services scan known data breach records for matches tied to your email address, Social Security number and other identifiers.
These services also monitor credit files across the three major U.S. credit bureaus and alert you to new accounts, hard inquiries or other changes to your credit report. If suspicious activity appears, members receive real-time alerts as soon as it is detected.
See my tips and best picks on Best Identity Theft Protection at Cyberguy.com.
2) Work only with legitimate tax preparers
Anyone paid to prepare a tax return must sign it and include a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number. Avoid preparers who promise unusually large refunds or refuse to sign your return.
3) Ignore unexpected IRS messages
The IRS does not contact taxpayers through email, text messages or social media to request personal information. Messages claiming to be from the IRS asking for sensitive data are usually scams.
AVERAGE TAX REFUND TOPS $3,700 MIDWAY THROUGH FILING SEASON, TREASURY SAYS
From stimulus payment theft to ghost preparers, taxpayers face shifting fraud tactics each year during tax season. (John Moore/Getty Images)
4) File your return early
Identity thieves often attempt to file fraudulent tax returns before the real taxpayer does. Filing earlier in the season can reduce that risk.
5) Consider an IRS Identity Protection PIN
This six-digit code adds an extra layer of security to your tax return. Without it, criminals cannot file a return using your Social Security number.
What to do if someone files a tax return in your name
If the IRS rejects your return because one has already been filed using your Social Security number, you may need to complete IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. The IRS may also require identity verification before processing your return. In some cases, affected taxpayers must submit a paper return while the agency investigates the suspected fraud.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Tax scams change every year, but the pattern stays the same. Criminals look for confusion around tax rules, new programs or trending online advice and use that uncertainty to push fraudulent claims or steal personal information. The best protection is slowing down before you file. Verify tax advice through trusted sources such as the IRS, work only with legitimate tax preparers and keep a close eye on your personal data and credit activity. A little caution during filing season can help prevent months of headaches if your return gets flagged for fraud.
Have you ever received a suspicious tax message, questionable filing advice online or discovered a tax return filed in your name? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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ADT has confirmed a new data breach, and it comes with a familiar twist. A well-known cybercrime group is reportedly demanding money and threatening to leak data if it does not get paid.
The group behind it, ShinyHunters, says it stole more than 10 million records. ADT has not confirmed that number, but it says attackers accessed customer data.
According to the company, “ADT’s cybersecurity systems detected unauthorized access to a limited set of customer and prospective customer data on April 20, and the company’s response protocols activated immediately, terminating the intrusion, launching a forensic investigation with leading third-party cybersecurity experts, and notifying law enforcement.”
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GOOGLE CONFIRMS DATA STOLEN IN BREACH BY KNOWN HACKER GROUP
ADT confirmed a new data breach after hackers claimed they stole millions of records and threatened to leak the data. The company said customer payment information and security systems were not affected. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What data was exposed in the ADT breach
ADT says, “The investigation confirmed that the information involved was limited to names, phone numbers, and addresses. In a small percentage of cases, dates of birth and the last four digits of Social Security numbers or Tax IDs were included.
Here is the part that may bring some relief. ADT tells CyberGuy, “Critically, no payment information, including bank accounts or credit cards, was accessed, and customer security systems were not affected or compromised in any way.”
Still, this kind of personal data carries real value. Even without full Social Security numbers, attackers can use it to build convincing scams that feel personal.
How hackers may have accessed ADT systems
This breach may have started with a phone call. ShinyHunters told BleepingComputer it used a voice phishing attack, often called vishing, to compromise an employee’s Okta single sign-on account. The group claims that access allowed it to steal data from ADT’s Salesforce system. ADT has confirmed unauthorized access to customer and prospective customer data, but it has not publicly confirmed that specific attack method. This approach has become more common. Instead of hacking systems directly, attackers target people. One successful interaction can unlock multiple systems at once.
In a statement to CyberGuy, ADT said its response worked as intended.
“ADT’s protocols performed as designed: the breach was identified quickly, the threat was contained, and the scope was limited,” the company said. “ADT has directly notified all impacted individuals and will offer complimentary identity protection services as appropriate. Protecting customers is not just a priority; it is the foundation of what ADT does. The company remains committed to investing in and strengthening the cybersecurity infrastructure that its customers and their families depend on.”
RANSOMWARE ATTACK EXPOSES SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS AT MAJOR GAS STATION CHAIN
A sign in front of a suburban home in San Ramon, Calif., indicates the house is secured by an ADT alarm system to prevent burglaries and break-ins.
Why the ADT data breach matters for you
On the surface, this breach may seem limited. No financial data. No system control. That sounds contained. The reality is more complicated.
Names, phone numbers and addresses create a powerful starting point for scams. Add even partial Social Security data, and the risk increases. Criminals can use that information to impersonate companies, reset accounts or trick victims into handing over more sensitive details.
This also raises a bigger issue. Even companies focused on security can become targets. That should change how you think about your own exposure.
ADT’s history of data breaches
This isn’t the first time ADT has dealt with a data breach. The company disclosed incidents in August and October of 2024 that exposed customer and employee information.
When breaches happen more than once, it raises questions about internal security practices and how attackers keep finding a way in.
At the same time, it highlights a broader trend. Cybercriminal groups like ShinyHunters are focusing on identity systems and employee access instead of traditional hacking methods.
Ways to stay safe after a data breach
After a breach like this, the goal is to reduce how much attackers can do with your information and make yourself a harder target going forward.
1) Watch for targeted scams
If someone claims to be from a company like ADT, pause before responding. Scammers often use real details to sound convincing. Hang up and contact the company directly using a verified number.
2) Limit your exposed personal data
Consider using a personal data removal service. These tools help remove your information from data broker sites, which reduces what scammers can find about you online. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting CyberGuy.com.
3) Add identity theft monitoring
Identity theft monitoring can alert you to suspicious activity tied to your name or Social Security number early, which gives you a chance to act before damage spreads. See my tips and best picks on Best Identity Theft Protection at CyberGuy.com.
4) Strengthen your passwords and account security
Use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords. If you reused passwords anywhere, especially on email or banking accounts, update them right away to prevent account takeovers. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at CyberGuy.com.
HEALTHCARE DATA BREACH HITS SYSTEM STORING PATIENT RECORDS
Hackers accessed a limited set of ADT customer and prospective customer data, the company said, including names, phone numbers and addresses. In some cases, partial Social Security or Tax ID information was also exposed. (Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
5) Turn on two-factor authentication
Adding an extra login step, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), makes it much harder for attackers to break into your accounts, even if they have your credentials.
6) Keep your devices protected
Make sure your devices run updated security software. Many modern tools can detect suspicious activity before it turns into a bigger problem.
7) Freeze your credit if sensitive data was exposed
If your Social Security number or even part of it may be involved, consider placing a credit freeze with the major bureaus. This prevents new accounts from being opened in your name without your approval.
8) Review your financial and account activity
Keep an eye on bank accounts, credit cards and important logins for unusual activity. Even small, unfamiliar charges or login alerts can be an early warning sign.
9) Use strong antivirus protection
Install and maintain strong antivirus software on your devices. It can detect suspicious activity, block malware and help stop threats before they gain access to your data. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at CyberGuy.com.
10) Be cautious with account recovery attempts
Attackers often try to reset your passwords using information they already have. If you get unexpected password reset emails or codes, treat them as a warning sign, not a routine message.
11) Opt for a reliable home security system
While ADT is one of the largest home security companies in the United States, the recent breach of customer information highlights potential vulnerabilities despite the company’s assurance that home security systems were not compromised. There are many other options in the market, whether you prefer a professionally installed system or a do-it-yourself one.
For reference, you can check out my guide on the best home security systems at CyberGuy.com, where I’ve listed four of my favorite options. You might also want to find out if your home insurance offers a discount for installing robust security protection.
Kurt’s key takeaways
If your data was part of this breach, the risk does not end with the initial incident. In many cases, it is just getting started. You may begin to see more targeted scam calls or emails. Messages might include your name or reference your address to appear legitimate. That level of detail can make even cautious people hesitate. Even if you have never used ADT, this is a reminder of how often personal data circulates behind the scenes. Once it is out there, it can be reused in ways you never expected. The bigger takeaway is simple. Breaches like this are less about a single company and more about how exposed personal data has become across the board.
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Should companies like ADT be doing a better job protecting your data, especially after repeated breaches? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Not all trifolds are created equal — just ask our own Allison Johnson, who recently spent time with Samsung’s ill-fated Galaxy phone. Aurzen’s Zip projector is the kind of trifold gadget we can fully get behind, though, and it’s currently on sale at Amazon for $259.99 ($140 off). You can also pick it up in several colors directly from Aurzen for the same price, or in the gold shade for a new low of $249.99.
While not nearly as powerful as Anker’s Nebula P1 and other portable projectors we’ve recently tested, the Zip is surprisingly capable despite its small stature and battery-powered operation. The snake-like 720p projector offers up to 100 lumens of brightness — meaning it will work best in dark environments, or in brighter rooms when viewing a smaller image — while its built-in battery should last about 80 minutes based on our real-world testing. That’s not exactly marathon battery life, but it’s easy enough to top off the Zip using a power bank or wall adapter.
In terms of support, the Zip can quickly connect to iPhones via AirPlay and to Android devices over Miracast, Smart View, and similar standards, allowing you to wirelessly mirror everything you can see on your phone. You can use it to watch any movies you’ve downloaded on your device, peruse your social feeds, or get in a quick session with your favorite game. It works in both landscape and portrait orientations, too, and supports Bluetooth, letting you listen privately with headphones or pair it to your favorite speaker.
The biggest downside to the Zip, at least for some folks, is that you won’t be able to use it to watch content from services like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max due to copyright restrictions. Aurzen does make a USB-C dongle that allows you to stream DRM-protected content, if you truly can’t get by without watching the latest episode of Euphoria. You’ll have to pay a whopping $109 for the privilege, or find another way.
Pages from the Anthropic website and the company’s logos are displayed on a computer screen in New York on Feb. 26, 2026. (Patrick Sison/AP Photo)
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Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.
IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:
– Anthropic has an AI model that’s too dangerous to go public
– Melania Trump turns White House tennis pavilion into AI lab for students
– Florida murder suspect asked ChatGPT about dumping human remains days before killings: docs
LOCKS WIDE OPEN: Anthropic’s Mythos AI model, too dangerous to release publicly, is changing digital security faster than anyone is ready for – There is a new AI model called Mythos. Anthropic built it for defensive cybersecurity research. It is so effective at finding software vulnerabilities that Anthropic decided the general public cannot have it.
FUNDAMENTAL SHIFT: From rogue AI blackmailing humans to condensing school days, AI revolution already reshaping life – Fox Business explores how the artificial intelligence revolution is already fundamentally reshaping everyday life, ranging from alarming scenarios of rogue AI blackmailing humans to innovative applications condensing traditional school days.
DIVERSITY FIGHT: Trump DOJ jumps into Musk xAI court battle – The Trump Department of Justice has formally intervened in a high-profile court battle involving Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company xAI, as a broader legal and political fight over corporate diversity initiatives rapidly heats up.
FIRST LADY FUTURE: Melania Trump embraces AI education initiative in White House tech push she’s been championing – First lady Melania Trump is actively embracing a new artificial intelligence education initiative as part of a broader White House technology push that she has long been championing.
Melania Trump an immersive event AI event this week where students used Meta virtual reality headsets and AI-powered glasses to explore British landmarks and examine historical artifacts. (Andrea Hanks)
PRICE PAIN SPREADS: AI boom tests GOP’s midterm affordability pitch – The rapid artificial intelligence boom and its associated energy costs are beginning to test the Republican Party’s midterm pitch on affordability as economic price pain spreads among voters.
CHILLING QUERY: Florida murder suspect asked ChatGPT about dumping human remains days before killings: docs – Newly released court documents revealing that a Florida murder suspect allegedly asked the artificial intelligence program ChatGPT for advice on dumping human remains just days before the killings occurred.
RACE IS ON: Kevin O’Leary details massive Utah AI data center to rival China’s tech dominance – Business mogul Kevin O’Leary detailed plans for a massive artificial intelligence data center in Utah designed specifically to rival China’s growing global tech dominance.
TECH FIGHT: Former Apple CEO sees OpenAI poses largest competitive threat to tech giant in years – Former Apple CEO John Sculley is sounding the alarm on artificial intelligence, warning that OpenAI currently poses the largest competitive threat the massive tech giant has faced in years.
BOUNCING BACK: US economic growth rebounds as AI buildout and consumer spending fuel first quarter – U.S. economic growth rebounded in the first quarter of the year from a sluggish fourth quarter, according to the Commerce Department’s latest estimate.
JOB IMPACT: Zuckerberg says Meta layoffs tied to AI spending, won’t rule out future cuts – Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has explicitly tied recent staff layoffs to the company’s massive spending on artificial intelligence, while pointedly refusing to rule out the possibility of future workforce cuts.
HEAVYWEIGHT LEGAL BATTLE: Elon Musk tells court he was fool for funding OpenAI: report – Tech billionaire Elon Musk told a court that he was a “fool” for his early financial role in funding the artificial intelligence research organization OpenAI.
Elon Musk testifies during the OpenAI trial in Oakland, Calif., on April 29, 2026. (Vicki Behringer)
LEARNING ON THE JOB: Meta tracks workers to train AI agents – Social media giant Meta is actively tracking its own workers and analyzing their internal communications in an effort to train its advanced new artificial intelligence agents.
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