DPSS4361

IRS Scam

Have you ever received a call from the “Internal Revenue Service (IRS)” stating you owe money? Hang up, this is a scam! Scammers impersonate the IRS stating there will be a consequence if you don’t pay immediately. Scammers ask for gift cards, personal information, or money to be wired. Why do scammers want gift cards? As soon as the victim gives the scammer the pin on the back of the gift card, that money is gone and almost impossible to trace. The IRS will never call or email you asking for an immediate payment or personal information; they will mail you a notice. If you are unsure if you owe money to the IRS, call the IRS directly at 800-829-1040 or you can check online at IRS.Gov. The Department of Treasury’s Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) Unit is actively investigating these cases for the IRS. The TIGTA Agents (who are real Federal Agents) meet with the victims to get details on their case. For additional information go to: http://www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml

Jury Duty Scam A scammer calls identifying him or herself as being a government official accusing you of failing to comply with Jury Duty. Consequently, there is now a warrant for your arrest. In order for you to avoid arrest and jail time you will now have to pay a fine immediately. If you receive a call similar to this, hang up! This is not a real government official calling you. Scammers can manipulate caller ID information to make it appear as if a local number is calling. Scammers also use credible government titles to scare victims. They ask for prepaid gift cards or personal information that can be used for identity theft. Federal Court will contact you through U.S mail and would not ask for sensitive information via a telephone call.

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APS HOTLINE 800-491-7123