Scam Alert: Fraudulent Text Messages Claiming to Be from the Minnesota Department of Revenue

We wanted to make you aware of a recent alert from the Minnesota Department of Revenue regarding scam text messages that are falsely claiming to come from the department. These fraudulent texts ask recipients to click on a suspicious hyperlink in order to update banking information and claim a refund.

It’s important to note that these scam texts are being sent from sources outside of the department. The Minnesota Department of Revenue’s systems and taxpayer data are not at risk.

What to Do if You Receive One of These Scam Texts:

• Do not click the hyperlink in the message
• Report the text as junk or spam on your phone, then delete it
• Contact your banking institution immediately if you clicked the link and entered any personal information

The Minnesota Department of Revenue emphasizes that it will never send unsolicited communications asking you to update personal or financial details.

Below is the content of the scam text messages to be aware of:

Your refund request has been processed and approved. Please provide accurate payment information by [DATE]. Funds will be deposited into your bank account or mailed to you via paper check within 1 to 2 business days.

[LINK]

Failure to submit the required payment information by [DATE] will result in permeant forfeiture of this refund under Minnesota Statute 5747.11. reply “Y” then close and reopen this message to activate the link. If the issue persists, copy the link and enter it directly into your browser.

Minnesota Department of Revenue | St. Paul MN | Official State Government Agency