Taxpayers Should Know the Signs of a Phone Scam

Taxpayers should be aware that aggressive criminals pose as IRS agents in hopes of stealing money or personal information. The tax filing season is a prime time for phone scams because people are thinking about taxes.

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.
• Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law enforcement groups.
• Demand that taxes be paid without giving taxpayers the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
• Call out of the blue about an unexpected refund.

Taxpayers who receive these calls should:

• Hang up the phone immediately.
• Report the call to TIGTA or by calling 800-366-4484
• Report the number to phishing@irs.gov and be sure to put IRS Phone Scam in the subject line.