URGENT UPDATE: Tax season has ignited a dramatic rise in IRS impersonation scams, with reports confirming a staggering 400 percent spike in fraudulent calls since January 2026. Scammers are using aggressive robocalls to threaten victims with arrests, lawsuits, or property liens unless immediate payments are made.
Residents of Burlington, Vermont and across the nation are being targeted by criminals posing as IRS agents. These scammers have shifted tactics, moving from offering refunds to outright intimidation. Victims are being told they have a criminal case against them for tax evasion, with threats that law enforcement is on the way to arrest them.
Joan Goodchild, a prominent cybersecurity journalist and founder of Cybersavvy Mom, warns that these tactics are designed to provoke panic, pushing individuals to act without thinking. “If you receive one of these calls, hang up immediately. Do not press any buttons or engage with the caller,” Goodchild advises. Instead, she urges individuals to visit IRS.gov for official contact information and to verify any communication.
The alarming increase in these scams has been tracked and reported by No-Mo-Robo, a company specializing in scam-call blocking technologies, underlining the urgency of the situation. With tax deadlines looming, the potential for victimization is higher than ever as individuals become more anxious about their tax obligations.
In response to this growing threat, Goodchild will share additional tips on how to protect yourself from these scams during her segment on You Can Quote Me, airing at 11:30 a.m. on Channel 3 today.
It is crucial for taxpayers to remain vigilant and informed as they navigate this tax season. The message is clear: don’t let fear dictate your actions. Protect yourself by staying informed, verifying calls, and reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this situation develops. Don’t fall victim to these scams—share this information with friends and family to help keep everyone safe during tax season.
