Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Beware of the Latest Tax Refund Scam

Cyber threats are evolving fast. Starting this month, make cybersecurity a priority and take decisive steps to protect yourself, your clients and your law firm. We’re kicking off five weeks’ worth of awareness tips with the latest news on a tax refund scam alert from the Alabama Department of Revenue.

Who doesn’t love the windfall of a tax refund? The sight of a text alert from the Alabama Department of Revenue (ALDOR) might set visions of a fatter bank account dancing in your head, but the reality could be an account that’s zeroed out.

The ALDOR is warning Alabamians that people are reporting text messages that appear to be from the department. The texts state that the refund request was approved and then ask for your bank information so they can deposit the refund. And in typical scam fashion, you’re given a very short deadline in which to respond at the risk of losing the refund.

Don’t click on any links! Don’t reply!

Just immediately delete the texts.

The ALDOR will NEVER ask for personal information via text. This is reportedly happening in other states as well, so warn family members who could be vulnerable even if they don’t live in Alabama.