The IRS is warning taxpayers about a new scam involving tax refunds.
Thieves are allegedly stealing taxpayer information using phishing and other schemes. The crooks use the info to file a fake tax returns in the taxpayers' name.
They then use the taxpayers' real bank accounts to deposit the refunds. That's when they pose as IRS or other law enforcement and call attention to the so-called error and ask taxpayers to return the money to them.
The IRS says taxpayers receiving erroneous refunds should contact their tax preparers.
They also say the IRS will not initiate contact with taxpayers by phone or email.