IRS scammers are impersonating the agency with fake CP53E notices, and real taxpayers are struggling to tell the difference.
The CP53E is a legitimate IRS notice about refunds and direct deposit information. Scammers exploit this by sending convincing counterfeits to trick people into revealing banking details, Social Security numbers, or clicking malicious links.
Here's what you need to know to protect yourself.
The real IRS sends CP53E notices when there's an issue with your refund or the direct deposit account you provided. The agency typically mails these letters, not emails. If the IRS needs information from you, they initiate contact through postal mail first, never email or unsolicited phone calls.
Red flags for fake notices include poor grammar, spelling errors, urgent language demanding immediate action, and requests for sensitive information via email or text. Real IRS letters arrive on official IRS letterhead with your name, address, and a specific notice number.
What scammers do: They send emails or texts claiming you have a refund waiting or that your direct deposit failed. They include links leading to fake IRS websites designed to harvest your login credentials and financial information. Some include attachments with malware.
If you receive a CP53E notice and doubt its authenticity, don't click links or call any phone number in the letter. Instead, go directly to IRS.gov and check your account using the official IRS portal, or call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040. The IRS can confirm whether they actually sent you a notice.
You can also report suspected scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at phishing@irs.gov or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Legitimate refund information appears in your IRS online account under "View My Payment