With the April 15 tax deadline just days away, officials are warning Georgia residents to be on high alert for scams targeting taxpayers during one of the busiest times of the year.

Scammers often ramp up their efforts in the final days leading up to Tax Day, using urgency and fear to trick people into handing over sensitive personal and financial information. Many of these scams are designed to look official, with criminals posing as IRS agents, tax preparers, or even legitimate financial institutions.

One of the most common tactics involves phone calls or emails claiming that a taxpayer owes money and must pay immediately to avoid penalties or arrest. Officials stress that the IRS does not call, text, or email demanding immediate payment or threatening legal action. Any message like that is a major red flag.

Another growing concern is phishing scams, where criminals send emails or texts that appear to be from the IRS or tax software companies. These messages often include links that lead to fake websites designed to steal Social Security numbers, bank information, or login credentials.

Tax-related identity theft is also a serious issue this time of year. In these cases, scammers file fraudulent tax returns using stolen personal information in order to claim refunds before the real taxpayer has a chance to file.

Fake tax preparers are another risk, especially for those looking for last-minute help. Some individuals may promise unusually large refunds or charge fees based on a percentage of the refund—both warning signs of potential fraud.

Experts recommend that taxpayers file as early as possible, use trusted and verified tax professionals, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or responding to unsolicited messages. It is also important to double-check website addresses and ensure any tax-related services are secure and legitimate.

As the deadline approaches, officials say awareness is the best defense. Taking a few extra moments to verify information and recognize common scam tactics could prevent costly mistakes.

With scammers becoming more sophisticated each year, staying cautious during tax season could save both money and personal information from falling into the wrong hands.