December 22, 2014 Scam # 22 - IRS-Impersonation Telephone Scam One of the most current, ongoing scams is an aggressive phone scam targeting taxpayers, claiming to be a call from employee of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The scammer can sound very convincing when they call. They will usually spoof (alter) the phone number appearing on your caller ID to make it look like the IRS is calling. Victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a debit card or wire transfer. If the victim refuses, they are threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or drivers license. Often, the caller becomes hostile and insulting. Or, victims may be told that they have a refund due to try to trick them into sharing private information. If you dont answer the phone, scammers will often leave a message saying that it is urgent that you call them back; usually telling you that a warrant has been issued for your arrest, you have taxes owed or you are due back a large refund.. • The IRS will never call to demand immediate payment. • They will not call about taxes owed without first having mailed you a bill. • The IRS will not demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed. • Nor, will they require you to use a specific payment method for your taxes, such as a prepaid debit card. • They will not ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. • Legitimate agents will not threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement to have you arrested for not paying. How to Protect Yourself i. If you receive a similar call, and doubt whether it is the IRS – contact your local IRS office (the phone number can be found in a phone directory or on the internet. ii. Do not share any personal information, give out credit card or other financial information over the phone. iii. Write down the home number appearing on your caller ID, hang up, and report the call to the local IRS office or FTC complaint center: https://ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&panel1-1
Posted on: Mon, 22 Dec 2014 15:27:00 +0000
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