AI Tax Scams Surge Ahead of Filing Deadline, BBB Warns

Sophisticated scams powered by artificial intelligence are tricking taxpayers into handing over sensitive information.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:53pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a futuristic cybersecurity control panel with neon cyan and magenta lights, representing the advanced AI technology used in tax scams.As AI-powered tax scams surge, a glowing digital control panel symbolizes the sophisticated technology being used to target vulnerable taxpayers.San Antonio Today

The Better Business Bureau in San Antonio is warning taxpayers about a growing threat of AI-powered tax scams ahead of the filing deadline. From fake IRS calls to convincing emails and texts, scammers are using AI technology to trick people into providing personal and financial information that can lead to identity theft.

Why it matters

Tax season is a prime time for scammers, and the rise of AI has made these schemes more sophisticated and convincing than ever. As taxpayers become increasingly wary of unsolicited calls and messages, scammers are adapting their tactics to take advantage of people's fear of missing out on potential refunds or credits.

The details

According to BBB Senior Director of Communications Jason Meza, the scams have surged in recent years as AI tools become more accessible. Scammers are using AI to impersonate the IRS through phone calls, text messages, and emails, often claiming the victim qualifies for new tax credits or larger refunds. Clicking on the scam links can lead to providing sensitive information like Social Security numbers and birth dates, which can then be used for identity theft.

  • The tax filing deadline is fast approaching.

The players

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

A nonprofit organization that focuses on advancing marketplace trust, the BBB provides consumer education and dispute resolution services.

Jason Meza

The Senior Director of Communications at the BBB in San Antonio, Texas.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

The U.S. federal government agency responsible for administering and enforcing federal tax laws.

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What they’re saying

“The IRS has seen a record number of calls come in. We're seeing a lot more calls, emerging calls of A.I., impersonating the IRS, impersonating collectors, tax collectors, debt collectors trying to get you to pay up or face penalties or jail time.”

— Jason Meza, Senior Director of Communications, Better Business Bureau

“The IRS traditionally does not use these services. In fact, they will use snail mail. You will get that mail, that correspondence via the mail. If it comes to you inbound, unsolicited, you didn't reach out for information, treat everything with caution.”

— Jason Meza, Senior Director of Communications, Better Business Bureau

“I think consumers have a real fear of missing out. The FOMO is real. They think they're missing a big deduction or tax credit on their behalf. They think that they might get more money back. So the temptation is out there for them to take the bait.”

— Jason Meza, Senior Director of Communications, Better Business Bureau

What’s next

The BBB recommends that anyone who believes they have been targeted by a tax scam should report it immediately to the BBB, the IRS, the Federal Trade Commission, or local law enforcement agencies.

The takeaway

The rise of AI-powered tax scams highlights the growing sophistication of cybercriminals and the need for taxpayers to be vigilant when it comes to unsolicited calls, emails, and messages, especially during tax season. Staying informed and reporting any suspicious activity can help protect against identity theft and financial losses.