LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — This is the time of year most adult Americans are thinking about taxes, and that includes scammers.
The latest taxtime scam starts with a phone call from someone claiming to be an IRS agent. They’ll even provide you with a badge number before demanding payment of back taxes. They may threaten to fine or even arrest you. They’ll try to pressure you into paying immediately, often asking for prepaid debit cards or wire transfers.
But don’t pay up — hang up! The agent is an imposter and you owe nothing!
The IRS will never call you, or threaten to arrest you. If there is an issue with your taxes, the agency will contact you via traditional mail. Even if you owe money, the IRS does not collect payments via prepaid debit or wire transfer. Scammers use these methods because they’re hard to trace.
Always be suspicious of unsolicited callers who pressure you to share funds or financial information. Scare tactics are almost always a sign of a scam.
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