SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The IRS has issued a warning about schemes that are popular during the holiday season. Experts say this is the target time of year for identity thieves and scheme artists as the holiday shopping season means more people will be shopping online and clicking links in emails and other messages.

Phishing/Smishing – Phishing emails or SMS/texts, known as “smishing,” attempt to trick a recipient into clicking a suspicious link, filling out information or downloading a malware file. These types of emails are often sent to large groups, like a business.

The IRS is warning of scams and encouraging Americans to protect sensitive personal information as the holiday shopping season begins.