While claiming to protect taxpayer privacy on the one hand, the IRS has thrown 12,500 taxpayers' privacy rights to the wolves by hiring private collection agencies to go after unpaid taxes.

If you own less than $25,000 of undisputed tax debt, expect a letter. Can scammers be far behind?

Here are some tips to protect yourself.

If you are targeted you will receive written notification from the IRS which includes the name of the collection agency. That's written and mailed, NOT EMAILED.

You will also receive a separate letter from the firm, also via the Post Office.

Payment checks should be written payable to the U.S. Treasury. Never write the check to an individual or that person's company.

It is so important that you follow the caveats I just gave you.

If you've been contacted by the IRS or anyone else and are still confused, call the IRS at (800) 829-1040.