ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A new email scam targeting Georgia taxpayers has emerged, one claiming to originate from the “GA Taxation Office.

The email is sent regarding “claims made through the coronavirus job-keeper payments/backing business incentive scheme.” It requests front and back, high-resolution photos of your drivers license and Medicare card.

Here are some warning signs if you receive any suspicious emails regarding taxes:

• Always look for extra letters or weird words in the email. This email scam is from “claims at penalty dash gov dot us.” Government emails will end in dot gov.
• Hover your computer mouse over the link to see the website link. In this email, it’s a bunch of gibberish.
• Google the title or the company claiming to email you to see if anyone else has reported it as a scam. With this scam, there’s no such thing as the “GA Taxation Office.” It’s technically “Georgia Tax Center” and its email is https://gtc.dor.ga.gov/_/

The Georgia Department of Revenue said it was not aware of the scam until Atlanta News First Investigates contacted it. A department spokesperson said “official communication from government agencies, such as the Georgia Department of Revenue, will never request personal information via unsolicited email or messages.”

The department advised not clicking on the links, and not responding. It advises verifying any tax information through the Georgia Tax Center website.

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