MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Revenue is warning senior homeowners about a viral online video promoting a fake federal property tax relief program.
The video claims Congress passed a law allowing older homeowners to freeze or reduce their property taxes. It directs viewers to contact their county assessor and request a “Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request” or “IRS Form 1098-SR.”
The Department of Revenue says neither the program nor the form exists.
Officials say the contact information provided in the video leads homeowners to scammers rather than their county assessors.
Wisconsin Secretary of Revenue David Casey said the video was generated using artificial intelligence and is designed to trick seniors into providing sensitive information, including Social Security numbers and banking details, or paying fees for services that do not exist.
DOR says scammers are increasingly using AI-generated videos that impersonate government officials. The videos can include realistic voices, official-looking logos, government seals and other terminology to make them appear legitimate.
Homeowners are encouraged to investigate online videos before acting on the information they provide and to be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.
DOR also says homeowners should not provide personal or financial information through unsolicited phone calls, text messages or unverified online links.
Anyone with questions about legitimate property tax relief programs should contact their local municipality directly.
Scams can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission or the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. The Wisconsin Consumer Protection Hotline is available at 800-422-7128 for questions or for people who have lost money or control of their identity in a scam.
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