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State warns of stimulus-related scams

| April 1, 2020 1:00 AM

The Montana Department of Revenue is warning Montanans about scams related to the recently announced federal stimulus package.

Scammers are contacting individuals, especially tax preparers, by phone, email and text, trying to solicit personal, financial and tax information that can be used for identity theft and financial fraud.

“I urge everyone to be vigilant with their information and check with authorities if they get inquiries about their personal data,” said Gene Walborn, director of the Montana Department of Revenue.

A typical scam might involve language such as, “In order to receive your/your client’s stimulus payment via direct deposit, we need you to confirm the banking information.” It might also include a link to website where the taxpayer is encouraged to leave personal financial information.

Neither the state department nor the IRS will call taxpayers asking for personal information such as Social Security Numbers or banking information.

The department also advises Montana taxpayers to file their taxes as soon as possible, and to file electronically, to narrow the opportunity for fraudulent activity related to their information.

Montanans who receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be with the Montana Department of Revenue should contact the department at MTRevenue.gov/contact to verify the source.

For more information, visit: MTRevenue.gov/fraud and www.irs.gov for more information.