Tax Scam Alert: New Email Scam Targets CT Taxpayers

Connecticut’s Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is warning residents of an email scam, according to a release.

Online thieves are posing as the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) through emails to steal taxpayer information.

According to DRS Commissioner Kevin Sullivan, taxpayers are receiving email messages about a “Connecticut state income tax verification exercise.” They are then directed to link to a fraudulent website that looks like an official DRS website and asked to disclose confidential information. Disclosing the information results in identity theft and likely fraudulent income refund claims in the name of the taxpayer.

The following email is being sent:

“Due to routine check and validation of our new website, you are required to download the attachment CT STATE INCOME TAX VERIFICATION EXERCISE to validate your details on CT database to enable you log in and view your W2 for the oncoming 2015 Income Tax Return exercise. Failure to update your details will result to termination of your account. DRS Home CT.gov home FAQs Feedback/Questions. State of Connecticut Disclaimer and Privacy Policy. Copyright © 2002-2015 State of Connecticut.”

Commissioner Sullivan said, “DRS never contacts taxpayers this way. Don’t get scammed. Do not open or reply to this email. Do not open the linked site however official it may look.”

He is advising people that they can contact DRS at (860) 297-5962 or outside the Hartford calling areas at (800) 382-9463.