State of California Franchise Tax Board Text | Red Flags of a Text Message Scam

The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) has issued a number of warnings about text message scams. The FTB has a very specific and limited set of circumstances under which it will send you a text message.

Any text message that falls outside of these guidelines is likely a scam.

When the FTB Will (and Won’t) Text You

The FTB’s official policy is that it does not send unsolicited text messages asking for personal or financial information, such as your bank account or Social Security number.

The only times you will receive a text message from the FTB are in these specific situations:

• MyFTB Account Alerts:

  • If you have a MyFTB online account and you have opted-in to receive text notifications, the FTB may send you a text alert when a new notice or document is available in your account.

• Verification Codes:

  • When you log in to your MyFTB account or register for a new one, you can choose to receive a text message with a verification code to confirm your identity.

• Appointment Reminders:

  • If you schedule an in-person appointment with an FTB Field Office, you may receive a confirmation text message.

• Requested Links:

  • If you call the FTB and request a link to a specific page (e.g., to make a payment or register for MyFTB), you may be sent a text with that link.

Also Read : Who Was Sending the Messages in Unknown Number

Red Flags of a Text Message Scam

• Asks for Personal Information:

  • A text message that asks you to click a link to “verify your identity” or provide your SSN, password, or bank account information is a scam.

• Threatens Arrest or Legal Action:

  • Scammers often use threats of arrest, license suspension, or other legal action to create a sense of urgency and panic. The FTB will not do this via text.

• Offers a Refund:

  • Be extremely cautious of any text that claims you are owed a tax refund and asks you to click a link to claim it.

• Generic or Vague:

  • The text may not use your name and will instead use generic language like “taxpayer” or “Californian.”

• Spelling and Grammar Errors:

  • Scam texts often contain poor grammar, typos, or awkward phrasing.

• Suspicious Links:

  • The link in the text will likely not go to the official FTB website (ftb.ca.gov) but to a fraudulent website that looks legitimate.

What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Text

Do not reply, click on any links, or open any attachments. Immediately delete the message. The FTB advises that you report the scam to them by calling their number or using their online Fraud Referral Report.