Scams & phishing
IRS and tax refund scams common in Georgia
Recognize fake IRS calls, emails, and refund phishing aimed at Georgia taxpayers — and how to verify real tax communications.
Updated 2026-07-20 · 5 min read · CyberForsyth
Tax season never really ends for scammers
Georgia taxpayers — including Forsyth County filers — are perennial targets for fake IRS threats and “refund” phishing. Scammers know people fear audits and love unexpected refunds.
What the real IRS generally does not do
According to long-standing IRS consumer warnings (verify on IRS.gov):
- The IRS does not call demanding immediate payment via gift cards, crypto, or wire
- The IRS does not threaten arrest over the phone as a first contact
- Unexpected email links to “verify your refund” are usually fake
When in doubt, log into your IRS online account through the official site you type yourself, or call published IRS numbers from IRS.gov — never from a cold call.
Common Georgia-flavored lures
- “State refund pending — confirm banking”
- Fake Georgia Department of Revenue lookalikes
- “Stimulus / rebate” leftovers years later
- Emails with fake PDF notices that install malware
If you already shared information
- Change passwords on email and financial accounts (unique passwords).
- Enable MFA.
- Check tax transcripts / IRS account for unfamiliar returns.
- Report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and consider IdentityTheft.gov recovery steps.
- File an IC3 complaint for significant financial loss.
Need hands-on help?
If a tax scam left malware on your PC or you need help securing accounts, contact CyberForsyth.
Sources
Public resources referenced in this guide. We are not affiliated with these organizations unless stated elsewhere.