AARP Pennsylvania is alerting residents age 50 and older about a rise in scams involving criminals posing as IRS agents.

These fraudsters aim to steal money and personal information by exploiting fear and uncertainty, with scams often starting with a phone call, letter, email or even a knock at the door.

Scammers may claim the target owes taxes, is under investigation or is due a refund. Victims are pressured to provide data or make fast payments through untraceable means such as gift cards or cryptocurrency.

AARP Pennsylvania recommends ignoring unsolicited IRS messages or calls, not sharing personal or payment information by phone or email, reporting suspicious activity right away, and using the official IRS site — irs.gov — to verify notices and payment options.