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IRS warns consumers of email scam

Cyber crooks are reportedly sending out "official looking" email messages purporting to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the US, it has emerged.

The IRS is warning individuals to watch out for the e-mail messages containing an alert about a refund supposed to be owed to them as the messages carry underlying online threats.

IRS spokesperson Peggy Riley is warning consumers to steer clear of responding to the "very official" looking messages otherwise they risk exposing themselves and their personal data to online threats.

"We're getting reports of people receiving e-mails that appear to come from the IRS and instruct recipients to respond, click on a link, or open an attachment in order to get their 2008 Economic Stimulus Refund," she said.

"If you have actually responded to a scam e-mail by giving out your private information, you should immediately take steps to prevent identity theft. You may now be a prime target."

Internet users have been encouraged to contact the IRS and report any suspicious looking messages.

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