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(Image credit: Getty Images / urbazon) Scammers are using AI to impersonate IRS workers and scam taxpayers AI is also helping attackers scale rapidly across multiple vectors Microsoft shares some simple tips to protect yourself Scammers are increasingly observed using artificial intelligence to fuel malicious activities, with many opting for AI-generated voice scams and deepfakes to impersonate tax preparers, accountants or IRS officials. With American citizens partaking in Tax Day, the surge in voice phishing (vishing) attacks means we’re seeing cybercriminals exploiting stolen personal details to convincingly fake identities and scam taxpayers into sharing sensitive financial documents and details. While consumers have long been familiar with the signs of email phishing, this new attack vector is catching more victims off guard. You may like Look out for tax-themed scams this month, Microsoft warns Deepfake scam calls are costing British victims hundreds each time - here's how to stay safe Vishing scams are targeting taxpayers With American citizens partaking in Tax Day on April 15, a new Microsoft Threat Intelligence report hopes to educate users about how they can better protect their data. Some easy fixes include implementing multi-factor authentication on online accounts and verifying the authenticity of URLs – by re-typing URLs themselves, users can avoid potential scams such as the use of an upper case ‘i’, which is often used in place of a lower case ‘L’ in attacks. Moreover, citizens should familiarize themselves with verified communication methods – for example, the IRS does not initiate contact via email, text or social media for personal or financial information, so a message like this should immediately sound alarm bells. Generative AI has allowed scammers to scale their attacks and create highly believable phishing communications, including realistic emails, voice calls and videos. It can be used at all levels of the attack, from deciding what to say or write to crafting content in the form of emails, websites and even voice impersonations. Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed! Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. Fraudsters can even manipulate search rankings to direct victims to fake sites that promise tax refunds, increasing their sense of authenticity. Other common attacks can include malicious PDF attachments, the use of QR codes and legitimate services like Dropbox, and fake DocuSign landing pages. Engineering, IT and consulting sector workers are among the most likely to be attacked. You might also like Use the best AI tools and best AI writers as a force for good at work ​​A "fakeness score" could help people identify AI generated content At risk? We’ve listed the best identity theft protection Social Links Navigation With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value! 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