Internal Revenue Department-Scam

Con artists and imposters often impersonate government agencies in an effort to get your money.  Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Scams are abundant and happen most frequently around tax season, but continue throughout the year. The crooks intimidate individuals by phone, mail, email, or even text claiming you owe back taxes, penalties or stating there is a problem with your tax return. They often give badge numbers and may know the last four digits of your social security number or other identifying information.  They have even gone so far as to spoof phone numbers to make it appear as if they are calling from an official office. They may threaten to sue litigation, arrest, and even deportation unless you pay them right away.  Oftentimes they tell you to pay them by prepaid debit card or wire the payment. They may also demand banking information or personal data. This is all a ploy to steal money or your identity.

If you receive a call, email or text from someone claiming to be the IRS it is typically a scam.  The IRS communicated with tax payers by mail. In addition, if you do owe a fee or back taxes, they will not require a specific type of payment.  If you believe you owe the IRS or are concerned by tax matters, contact the IRS directly by calling (800)829-1040 or visit their website irs.gov. Report scams by contacting Business Consumer Alliance and filing a complaint.  You should also report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) or calling (800) 366-4484.

Never give your personal or financial information to anyone that you have not thoroughly checked out. Record the details of the person contacting you in case you need to report it. Warn others you know about the scam so they do not fall victim.

For more information on IRS Scams, check out these articles.