BOSTON -- The Internal Revenue Service says if you get an e-mail that promises to help you get your Economic Stimulus refund, don't click on it because it's a scam.

“These "very official" looking e-mail messages alert people about a refund owed to them, but when opened they can be dangerous to you and your computer," said Boston IRS spokeswoman Peggy Riley.

Riley said the IRS has been getting reports that people are receiving e-mails that appear to come from the IRS that instruct the recipient to respond, click on a link or open an attachment to get their 2008 Economic Stimulus Refund.

Doing so, however, could put you at risk as it may allow scammers to download malicious software on to your computer.

Anyone receiving such an e-mail should immediately scan their computers for viruses and Spyware and be alert for suspicious activities on their financial accounts.

"If you have actually responded to a scam e-mail by giving out your private information, you should immediately take steps to prevent identity theft. You may now be a prime target," Riley said.

Riley said there are three important messages the IRS wants people to remember:

The IRS never sends unsolicited e-mails about your taxes.

If you get a suspicious looking e-mail, don't access any links or attachments.

If you have already filed a 2007 federal tax return with the IRS, you don't need to do anything else to get a stimulus payment. The IRS will take care of the rest.

Anyone who receives suspicious e-mails addressed from the IRS can help stop these scammers by forwarding the e-mail to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov, Riley said.

For special instructions on how to forward these messages, or for more information about tax scams, visit www.irs.gov