The
IRS phone scam continues to victimize taxpayers. Fraudsters make phone
calls to taxpayers, pretending to be IRS agents, and inform them that
they owe back taxes. They instruct the individual to transfer money to
them. If a taxpayer refuses or protests, the scammers use intimidation
and threats to pressure him or her into acting.
Taxpayers face the
threat of this tax scam at any time because it highly profitable for
fraudsters year round. Unlike the filing of fraudulent tax returns that
typically occurs during the tax season, the IRS phone scam can be
carried out any time of the year.
It’s important to
understand that the IRS does not make phone calls to taxpayers to inform
them that they owe back taxes. They send a notice that includes the
debt amount and how it can be paid. The IRS never:
- Demands immediate payment
- Demands payment without giving the opportunity to question or appeal
- Asks for a specific payment method, such as a prepaid debit card
- Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone
- Threatens law-enforcement action for not paying
Taxpayers should never share any personal, financial or tax
information with any unverified sources. It’s critical to keep this type
of information secure at all times. Before responding to any
information requests, the identity of the party in question should
always be verified.
Calls with requests
for information should be ended immediately. Report the phone number to a
law enforcement agency, TIGTA at 1-800-366-4484 or at www.tigta.gov, the Federal Trade Commission, or the IRS.
If
you do owe back taxes or think that you might owe, call the IRS directly
at 1-800-829-1040 instead of replying to an unverified communication.
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