Warning: Don’t Fall for the “Inflation Refund” Text Scam
A new and deceptive text message scam is making the rounds, preying on people’s hopes for financial relief. Scammers are impersonating the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, sending out fake alerts about a supposed “inflation refund.” This scheme is designed to trick you into handing over your most sensitive personal and financial data.
This scam, known as “smishing” (a combination of SMS and phishing), is particularly convincing because it taps into recent discussions about government stimulus and relief programs. However, understanding how it works is the first step toward protecting yourself.
How the Inflation Refund Scam Unfolds
The attack begins with an unsolicited text message. The message typically claims you are eligible for a substantial payment, often citing a specific amount like $1,250 as an “Inflation Relief” or “Stimulus” payment. To add a sense of legitimacy, the message will mention an official-sounding source, such as the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance.
The core of the scam is a call to action. The text will urge you to click a link to “claim” or “verify your eligibility” for the funds. This creates a sense of urgency, pressuring you to act quickly without thinking.
The Real Danger: Stealing Your Information
That link is the key to the entire fraud. Clicking it does not take you to an official government website. Instead, it directs you to a sophisticated fake portal built by criminals. This “phishing” site is designed to look identical to the real thing, complete with official logos and branding.
Once on the site, you will be prompted to enter a wealth of personal information to “process” your refund. The information they request is exactly what they need to steal your identity and money, including:
- Your full name and address
- Social Security number
- Bank account numbers and routing information
- Credit card details
- Online banking login credentials
Handing over this information can lead to devastating consequences, from drained bank accounts to fraudulent loans being taken out in your name.
Key Red Flags: How to Spot a Smishing Scam
Scammers rely on you to overlook the warning signs. Stay vigilant and watch for these red flags:
- Unsolicited Contact: Government agencies, including the IRS and state tax departments, will almost never initiate contact via text message to request personal or financial information.
- Urgent Language: Be wary of messages that use phrases like “Act Now,” “Offer Expires Soon,” or “Immediate Action Required.” This is a high-pressure tactic.
- Suspicious Links: Never trust a link sent in an unexpected text. Scammers often use URL shorteners or slightly misspelled web addresses to trick you.
- Promises of Free Money: While official government programs exist, any unsolicited message promising a large, no-strings-attached payment is a massive red flag.
Your Action Plan: What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Text
If a text message like this appears on your phone, follow these crucial security steps to protect yourself:
- Do Not Click the Link. This is the most important rule. Even clicking the link can expose your device to malware.
- Do Not Reply to the Message. Replying, even with “STOP,” confirms that your phone number is active, which can lead to more scam attempts.
- Block the Sender. Use your phone’s built-in feature to block the number immediately to prevent further contact.
- Delete the Text. Once you’ve blocked the number, delete the message to avoid accidentally clicking the link later.
- Verify Independently. If you are genuinely curious about a state program, go directly to the official government website by typing the address into your browser yourself. Never use a link from an unsolicited message.
By remaining skeptical and informed, you can easily defeat these scams and keep your personal information safe and secure.
Source: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/fake-inflation-refund-texts-target-new-yorkers-in-new-scam/
