Scams increase 34% year-over-year ahead of April 15 tax deadline

DENVER (KDVR) — The Colorado Public Interest Research Group reported another increase in robocalls and fraudulent texts as scammers gear up for the approaching tax return deadline.

CoPIRG Executive Director Danny Katz said scams are now up 34% over last year. In related data, a 2023 Pew Research Center survey found that 81% of Americans are concerned about how companies use their personal information.

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“Whatever you do, do not respond to any messages asking for money, especially if it’s urgent,” Katz told FOX31.

The three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) are making it easier to guard against identity theft by offering the option to freeze and unfreeze access to your credit account.

“It’s like if you leave your house, you would lock your front door, and right now there are the three credit bureaus that have your credit information and if anyone gets your social security number they can pretend that they are you, and open up a new account,” said Katz.

It can take years for identity theft victims to recover from the damage and repair their good credit standing.

“If you don’t have a credit freeze on, somebody can take your information and create a new credit card or bank account in your name,” said Katz.

Consumers can visit each credit bureau’s website to learn more about how to freeze and unfreeze an account.

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It’s important to remember that the freeze must be removed before applying for any type of credit, especially if you are planning on buying a home. Any credit lock should be discussed with your mortgage company or lender before applying to avoid denials.

For more information about the credit freeze process and identity theft prevention visit the CoPIRG website.

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