Though some social media users interpreted Elon Musk's X post as meaning the service was closed, its website remained active as of Feb. 7.

Direct File allows some taxpayers to file their returns online directly with the IRS for no cost and is available to about half the country.

The fake IRS emails and texts announcing tax refunds and credits are already on the way. It's tax filing season, so beware of the onslaught of financial scams.