Scam Alert: That Robocall Probably Isn't the IRS
Jackie here. Tax season is over, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t still at risk for tax scams. The FTC recently issued a warning about fake IRS calls that are tricking consumers into paying money they owe via prepaid cards. Be aware of this scam and keep yourself safe.
The Scam
This scam has been circulating for a few months, but seems to still be going strong. Scammers are faking caller ID information to impersonate the IRS and are threatening people with arrest, deportation and more if they don’t quickly pay up. There are several variations to scam, including ones using robocalls. One common thread each of these scams share is a demand for money paid quickly using prepaid debit cards, wire transfer or credit card.
Keeping Yourself Safe
Be aware that the IRS doesn’t ever ask people to pay tax debt using prepaid debit cards or wire transfers. If you need to be contacted about tax issues, the IRS will typically do so by mail. The IRS also doesn’t use text messaging, email or social media to request personal or financial information.
If you are worried about tax debt you may owe, contact the IRS yourself for help with payment questions. You can reach them at 800-829-1040.
If you get a suspicious call claiming to be from the IRS or the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) report it immediately online or by calling 800-366-4484. You can also file a complaint with the FTC using their online complaint form (make sure you include IRS Telephone Scam in the notes section).