03-04-26 Jay Haapala, Associate State Director for Community Engagement with AARP Minnesota, talks with Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings about about IRS imposter scams and how to avoid tax-season fraud

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell and Chantel Sings speak with Jay Haapala about the spike in IRS imposter scams during tax season. He explains how criminals pose as IRS agents through voicemails, texts, and emails to demand payment, steal personal information, or gain access to devices and financial accounts. Haapala outlines common red flags—including requests for payment by gift cards or cryptocurrency—and reminds listeners that the IRS does not initiate contact in these ways. He also highlights protective tools like the IRS Identity Protection PIN program and encourages people to stay informed through AARP’s Fraud Watch Network to avoid becoming victims.