Wisconsin officials warn seniors about viral property tax relief scam | #datingscams #romancescams

Wausau Pilot & Review

MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin officials are warning homeowners about a viral AI-generated video falsely claiming seniors can qualify for a new federal property tax relief program.

The Wisconsin Department of Revenue said Thursday that no such federal program exists and that the video directs homeowners to scammers rather than legitimate government offices.

The video claims Congress passed a law allowing older homeowners to freeze or reduce their property taxes. It tells viewers to contact their county assessor and request a “Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request” or “IRS Form 1098-SR.”

Neither exists, according to the Department of Revenue.

“This is an AI-generated video designed to trick seniors into sharing Social Security numbers and banking details, or paying fees for nonexistent filing services,” Wisconsin Secretary of Revenue David Casey said. “Property taxes are handled exclusively by local and state governments, not the federal government.”

State officials said increasingly sophisticated AI tools are making scams more difficult to recognize. Fraudulent videos can mimic the appearance and voices of real government officials and may include authentic-looking government seals, agency logos and terminology.

The department urged residents to be skeptical of videos promoting government benefits or programs that appear too good to be true, even when the person speaking appears to be a recognizable official.

Residents also should not provide Social Security numbers, banking information or other sensitive information over the phone, by text message or through unverified online links. Government tax and assessor offices will not seek that type of information through those methods, according to the department.

Anyone with questions about legitimate property tax relief programs should contact their local municipality directly.

Suspected scams can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission or the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. People who have lost money or believe their identity has been compromised can also contact Wisconsin’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-422-7128.