ODT warns of fake text message scam targeting Ohioans

The Ohio Department of Taxation (ODT) is cautioning residents about fraudulent text messages that falsely claim to come from the agency and direct recipients to a counterfeit website. 

The scam texts state, “Your tax refund request has been approved and is now pending release,” and prompt individuals to click a link to “finalize processing.” The link leads to a website designed to mimic ODT’s official page, complete with unauthorized use of the department’s logo and branding. 

“Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, even going so far as to copy our logos and create fake websites that look official,” Tax Commissioner Patricia Harris said. “I want Ohioans to know that the Department of Taxation will never contact you by text about your taxes or refunds. If you receive one of these messages, do not click the link, go directly to tax.ohio.gov to ensure you are on our official site.” 

ODT stressed that it does not use text messages to discuss tax matters, request information or issue refunds. Ohioans are urged to follow best practices, including avoiding responses to suspicious texts, not sharing personal or financial data and verifying web addresses. 

Anyone who suspects they have been targeted should reach out to local law enforcement, credit reporting agencies, the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Office of Consumer Affairs (866-278-0003 or [email protected]) and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. 

A short informational video on the scam is available through ODT.