The IRS has created a page to update consumers about the tactics used by various tax scammers. These scams prey on taxpayers’ fears of the IRS and that $300 Goodwill donation you did not have a receipt for. Most importantly, the IRS never initiates contact via mail or email. An IRS agent would only call after several notices regarding an ongoing issue. Do not provide any information at all over the phone or email. If you have older relatives or friends tell them to contact you or their accountant if they receive a call. Visit the IRS page at https://www.irs.gov/uac/tax-scams-consumer-alerts.