Some taxpayers have received unsolicited email messages purporting to be from the IRS.

But the IRS is warning recipients of such emails to not open them.

"Scammers use the IRS name or logo to make the message appear authentic so you will respond to it," said IRS spokesman Michael Devine. "In reality, it's a scam known as 'phishing,' attempting to trick you into revealing your personal and financial information."

Devine said anyone who receives an unexpected call, fax or letter from someone claiming to be from the IRS asking about your taxes, should call the IRS at 800-829-1040 to determine if the IRS is really trying to contact you.