The Brian Lehrer Show Brian Lehrer Weekend: Avoiding IRS Tax Scams; Planet Money: The Book; Bloomin' NYC
Apr 11, 2026
Mary Childs, Planet Money co-host who makes economics accessible. Alex Myasi, Planet Money reporter and book contributor. Kelly Phillips Erb, tax attorney and Forbes writer on tax scams. They unpack IRS phishing, smishing and AI-enabled impostors. They discuss the Planet Money book’s take on automation, ATMs and AI’s effects on work. They share local tips for spotting spring blooms in NYC.
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Scammers Targeted Elderly Immigrant Mother With Tax Call
- Debbie described scammers nearly tricking her 74-year-old mother who lives on Social Security and relies on help to avoid scams.
- The caller used political appeals and targeted immigrant seniors, highlighting how scammers prey on vulnerable elders.
Fake IRS Letters Push Victims To Call And Panic
- Mohamed received a mailed notice claiming he owed taxes and when he called the number the respondent hung up and couldn't explain details.
- The fake postal letters push recipients to call or pay, relying on confusion and urgency to trap targets.
Act Fast After Losing Money To A Tax Scam
- If you lose money to a tax scam, report it immediately and act within 24 hours to maximize any chance of recovery.
- Also contact tax and legal professionals since scam withdrawals can create taxable events and affect Medicare premiums.
