The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance is warning New Yorkers about a new wave of phishing schemes designed to steal sensitive tax information. Criminals are sending fake emails that appear to be official notices about income tax returns or refund eligibility. These messages often look legitimate, but they attempt to trick taxpayers into clicking unsafe links, entering personal details, or sharing a Social Security number and bank credentials.
Officials say these scams are becoming more sophisticated, making it harder for residents to distinguish real department communications from fraud. By imitating official New York State emails and using realistic formatting, scammers create convincing notices that pressure people to respond quickly.
Fraudsters are sending fake mail and online messages that look like they come from the State of New York's Department of Taxation and Finance. These emails often claim that residents are eligible for a New York tax refund or must fix an error on a recent income tax return. To appear credible, the scammers include official-looking seals, reference numbers, or refund status updates.
Victims are usually urged to enter information, log in to a fake account, or submit personal details to “confirm” their tax returns. In reality, the goal is to steal sensitive data, such as a Social Security number or bank login, which can later be used to file fraudulent tax returns or drain accounts.
According to the department, these emails may include attachments disguised as official software or notices. Opening them can give criminals access to a victim’s computer, allow them to track keystrokes, or install malware that compromises security.
There are also telltale signs. Many scams demand immediate payment or threaten that refunds will be lost unless taxpayers respond within weeks. Some even cite deadlines in March or November, designed to pressure residents into acting quickly. Others direct taxpayers to suspicious website addresses that don’t match the exact official New York State portal.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance has stressed that legitimate refund status updates are only shared through official state channels. Real communications come by postal mail or the agency’s secure website, never through unsolicited emails or text messages.
Officials are reminding New Yorkers to carefully review their accounts, watch for suspicious notices, and contact the department directly if something seems unusual. Any request that asks residents to submit an exact payment, share account access, or provide sensitive tax information online should be treated as a red flag.
The agency adds that authentic New York State communications always include clear instructions and verified contact numbers. Taxpayers who receive questionable mail or messages should avoid clicking links, ignore demands to “qualify” or “claim” a refund, and instead confirm the request through official channels.
Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller said scammers are constantly refining their tactics to exploit unsuspecting taxpayers.
“Scam artists continually adjust their methods to steal sensitive information from individuals,” Hiller noted. “Protecting your personal and financial data is essential—especially during income tax return season.”
The department added that it works closely with federal agencies to track patterns, scan suspicious activity, and issue timely alerts. By monitoring reports, officials can spot emerging schemes and guide New Yorkers on staying safe.
Falling for scams can mean lost refunds, fraudulent tax returns, and stolen details. Criminals may gain access to a bank account, track activity, or file false claims before a real income tax return is submitted. Recovery often takes weeks.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance urges residents to scan suspicious messages with antivirus software, avoid unsafe links, and check refund status only on the official New York State website. Never enter information, submit data, or respond to sudden payment demands. Watch for signs in any notice, and contact the department directly. Official news pages provide the exact reporting steps.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance urges residents to report suspicious emails or notices immediately. Taxpayers should verify refund status and review alerts only through the agency’s secure mail channels or official website.
Officials remind New Yorkers never to enter information or share financial details on third-party sites. For reliable updates and reporting instructions, use official state and federal resources:
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