TREAS - IRS - Identity Theft & Fraud Analytics - MRAS

The Department of the Treasury (TREAS), in collaboration with the General Services Administration (GSA), is undertaking a market research initiative aimed at enhancing its capabilities in identity theft and fraud analytics. This effort is part of a broader strategy to bolster the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) mission of effective tax administration, enforcement, and service delivery. The goal is to leverage advanced data analytics and emerging technologies to improve compliance, protect taxpayers, and safeguard the integrity of the tax system. The IRS's Research, Applied Analytics & Statistics (RAAS) office plays a pivotal role in this initiative by providing innovative analytical solutions to address complex tax administration challenges.

The requirement seeks contractor technical support and specialized analytical expertise to enhance detection capabilities for anomalies, identity theft, and fraud within individual and business tax return filings. This work involves utilizing existing IRS systems and data platforms to apply artificial intelligence and advanced analytics techniques effectively within Government-directed programs. The focus is on increasing situational awareness of emerging threats, schemes, and vulnerabilities through sustained collaboration with internal IRS stakeholders, state tax agencies, private industry partners, and other government entities.

Fraud affecting the U.S. tax system has grown increasingly sophisticated, necessitating advanced analytical capabilities for effective detection and response. The IRS faces significant challenges from both identity theft (IDT) and first-party fraud (FPF). Identity theft involves criminals using stolen personally identifiable information (PII) to mimic legitimate taxpayers closely, making detection more difficult. First-party fraud has also risen dramatically in recent years due to organized schemes promoted through social media networks. Both types of fraud threaten revenue protection while imposing burdens on taxpayers.

This market research effort does not involve acquiring new analytical systems or commercial tools; instead, it focuses on obtaining contractor personnel with specialized technical expertise who can support Government-directed fraud analytics activities using existing IRS systems. By strengthening these capabilities through expert support services, TREAS aims to enhance its ability to detect fraudulent activities effectively while protecting taxpayer data integrity across its operations.