As the new years approaches, you should start searching for a reputable tax preparer and know how to avoid cryptocurrency scams.

"There are numerous schemes criminals are using to defraud and separate unsuspecting Americans from their hard-earned money," said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS-CI Atlanta Field Office. "While our special agents are continuously investigating and the U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuting criminals for these crimes, we also want to use this opportunity during International Fraud Awareness Week to bring awareness to help citizens protect themselves from becoming victims of these schemes."

International Fraud Awareness Week is Nov. 17 through Nov. 23 and the IRS Criminal INvestigation Atlanta Field Office is urging the public to pay attention to anti fraud awareness.

Return preparer fraud involves the preparation and filing of false income tax returns, false deductions, unallowable credits, or excessive exemptions on returns prepared for their clients.

"One of the ways taxpayers can protect themselves from fraudulent tax preparers is to look for those who are in business year-round," Hardeman said. "Not using an established tax preparer can cause problems for the taxpayer if they need to contact them after the filing season is over."

Digital wallets are targets as well, a common tactic is using romance scams to lure someone into investing in cryptocurrency trading platforms.

In September, an indictment was unsealed charging two people with conspiracy to steal and launder over $230 million in cryptocurrency from a victim in Washington, D.C.

Individuals should be aware of these red flags:

More information on choosing reputable tax preparers can be found right here.

IRS-CI encourages the public to share information regarding known or suspected tax and financial fraud. To report a suspected crime, taxpayers may visit IRS.gov or contact the CI Atlanta Field Office by email at [email protected].