The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe The Skeptics Guide #1077 - Feb 28 2026
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Feb 28, 2026 They walk through IRS tax scams and AI-driven refund phishing to show how fraud works. A new nasal respiratory vaccine in mice and debate over COVID origins are discussed. Researchers propose using accelerators to transmute spent nuclear fuel. A study links bird-identification expertise to brain changes. Practical tips for starting a local skeptical group and a vaccines-themed science-or-fiction quiz close out the show.
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Don't Respond To Tax Refund Phishing
- Avoid responding to unsolicited tax-related texts, emails, or calls that claim refunds or problems with returns.
- Jay Novella and Evan Bernstein recommend verifying via official numbers or IRS snail mail and forwarding phishing to phishing@irs.gov or texting 7726.
Never Give SSNs Or Bank Details To Unsolicited Contacts
- Never click links or call numbers in suspicious tax messages and never give Social Security or bank account numbers via unsolicited contact.
- Jay suggests using known official numbers, pushing back when asked for SSN, and forwarding scams to the IRS and carriers.
Check Autoimmune Status Before Innate Immune Vaccines
- Ask your doctor before using innate-immune stimulating vaccines if you have autoimmune disease because activation can trigger flares.
- Stephen Novella noted psoriasis and cautioned that months-long innate activation could exacerbate autoimmune conditions.