Tax Season is Prime Time for Phone Scams
As tax season gets into full swing, this is prime time for many criminals to continue making calls to taxpayers posing as IRS agents. A reminder that the IRS will never:
- Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card, or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes.
- Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
- Demand that taxes be paid without allowing taxpayers to question or appeal the amount owed.
- Call unexpectedly about a tax refund.
Taxpayers who receive these phone calls should:
- Record the number and then hang up the phone immediately.
- Report the call to TIGTA using their IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form or call 800-366-4484.
- Report the number to phishing@irs.gov and be sure to put “IRS Phone Scam” in the subject line.
For more information about Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts, click the link below.