It’s Tax Time-Beware of Phishing Tax Scams. In 2018, the IRS noted a 60% increase in phishing emails intended to steal money and tax data. Scammers attempt to obtain personal, financial or tax information such as usernames, passwords, social security numbers, or bank accounts. Don’t become a victim. By law, anyone who is paid to prepare or assist in preparing federal tax returns must sign them and include a valid 2019 Preparer Tax Identification Number. Review your tax return before signing it to ensure the routing and bank account number on the completed tax return are correct. Visit https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts