Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin is alerting residents to a wave of scams that are circulating via text messages and email, falsely claiming to be from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). These fraudulent messages have raised concern as scammers attempt to steal personal and financial information from unsuspecting Arkansans.
The scams reportedly involve notifications that a tax refund request has been approved. Recipients are then prompted to provide bank account information by following a web link included in the message. Authorities warn that these messages are not legitimate and that following the instructions could lead to identity theft or financial loss.
“Scammers often impersonate government agencies to gain trust and trick individuals into sharing sensitive information,” said Attorney General Tim Griffin. “Arkansans should be cautious and never provide personal or financial information in response to unexpected emails or texts claiming to be from the DFA or any other government agency.”
The Attorney General’s Office advises residents to take simple steps to protect themselves. If a scam is received via text message, users should tap the “Report Junk” option. Emails containing similar claims should be deleted immediately. Additionally, the scam should be reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center online to help authorities track and prevent further incidents.
Residents seeking more guidance or information on how to recognize and avoid scams can contact the Office of Attorney General directly at (501) 682-2007 or via email at [email protected]. Further details and resources are also available on the official website, www.ArkansasAG.gov.
These warnings come amid a growing trend of fraudulent activity across the country, where scammers frequently use impersonation tactics to target taxpayers during the filing season and beyond. Officials emphasize that the DFA will never request bank account details through unsolicited texts or emails, making it crucial for Arkansans to remain vigilant.
By remaining cautious, reporting suspicious messages, and following official guidance, residents can help protect themselves and others from falling victim to these increasingly common scams. Awareness and prompt action are key to preventing financial loss and safeguarding personal information in the digital age.
