As the tax season unfolds, numerous individuals are submitting their tax returns ahead of the April 15 cutoff. Sadly, this period also sees a rise in scams perpetrated by fraudsters and cybercriminals.

Throughout the years, Mashable has highlighted various scams that emerge during tax season, aimed at individuals attempting to file their taxes.

This week, Google released a post outlining their tools and advice to assist in evading scams during tax season. According to Alloy’s annual State of Fraud report, there has been a staggering 67 percent rise in fraudulent attempts, with scams related to tax refund updates being the most prevalent.

Here’s how Google is providing assistance:

Scam Identification on Pixel devices

Google indicates that Pixel users experience 70 percent fewer spam calls owing to Call Screen, a feature designed to detect and filter out spammers. Moreover, Google provides Scam Detection alerts, an opt-in feature within the Pixel’s Phone app, utilizing AI to alert users when interactions appear to be scams, sending notifications, sound alerts, and vibrations.

Identifying text scams with Circle to Search

Messages or DMs purporting to be from the IRS are prevalent scams during tax season. Google Messages on Android devices includes Scam Detection, and Circle to Search introduces an added layer of security. By long-pressing the home button and circling the questionable message, Circle to Search will verify its legitimacy. On iOS, this feature is accessible via Lens in the Google app by taking a screenshot and employing Lens for analysis.

Google Safe Browsing

Google’s Chrome browser provides security through Google Safe Browsing. By heading to Settings, then Privacy and Security, followed by Security, and selecting Enhanced protection, users can have websites checked against known threats to identify phishing or harmful sites.

Gmail notifications

Gmail marks recognized scam, spam, or malware emails with “high-visibility warning banners” to inform users of dubious activity. These red or yellow banners aid in thwarting fraudsters from taking advantage of your inbox.

Ad visibility

If an advertisement appears too good to be true, click the three-dot icon next to it in Google Search and access the “About this advertiser” section. This discloses the advertiser’s name, location, and verification status from Google, ensuring that scammers cannot exploit Search ads.