Don’t get victimized by one of the ‘Dirty Dozen’

February 20, 2012 – 1:50 pm

The IRS has released its annual Dirty Dozen ranking of tax scams, and is reminding taxpayers to use extra caution during tax season when there is seemingly a multitude of identity thieves looking to take advantage.

IRS Commissioner Dan Shulman said taxpayers must be diligent to avoid falling into a trap with the Dirty Dozen.

“Scam artists will tempt people in person, online, and by e-mail with misleading promises about lost refunds and free money. Don’t be fooled by these scams,” he said. Knowing what these scams are is half the battle when it comes to protecting yourself and your personal information.

The 2012 Dirty Dozen is as follows:

• Identity theft
• Phishing
• Return preparer fraud
• Hiding income offshore
• “Free” money from the IRS
• False or inflated income and expenses
• False Form 1099 refund claims
• Frivolous arguments
• Falsely claiming zero wages
• Abuse of charitable organizations and deductions
• Disguised corporate ownership
• Misuse of trusts