Recognize the pattern
How it starts
Calls, emails or texts claiming to be from the IRS, Social Security or another benefits agency.
The promise
Update today to restore benefits or receive a refund.
What happens next
Forged agency branding and caller IDs redirect a routine inquiry to a fake site or personal account.
Signs to watch for
- Threatens immediate penalties or lost benefits
- Requests login credentials
- Demands unusual payments to an individual
Start with what you can do now
If this happened to you
Stop sharing information or following payment instructions.
Contact the real agency through its official website.
If your Social Security number was exposed, review steps at IdentityTheft.gov.
What to save
Keep the original records. Use copies to organize the details.
- Original notice
- Website or email address
- Disclosed-information list
- Payment records
Before you send money
- Go directly to IRS.gov or SSA.gov to check the issue.
- Do not trust a threatening caller because the number looks official.
- Do not pay supposed government debts with gift cards or crypto.
These guides explain common patterns. The facts of your situation and your payment provider’s rules determine which steps are available.