Summertime tends to be a period when thieves increase their scam attempts. They try to get people to disclose personal information like Social Security numbers, account information and passwords.

To avoid being a victim, remember these telltale signs of a scam. The IRS will never:

• Call to demand immediate payment using a specific method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. The IRS will first mail a bill to taxpayer who owes taxes. Tax payments should only be made payable to the U.S. Treasury. Never make checks out to third parties!
• Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups for non-payment.
• Demand taxed be paid without opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
• Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
• Use email, text messages or social media to discuss tax issues, involving bills or refunds.

For anyone who doesn’t owe taxes and has no reason to think they do, they should:

• Not give out any information, hang up immediately.
• Contact Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration to report.

 For anyone who owes tax or thinks they do, they can:

• View tax account information online at IRS.gov to see the actual amount owed.
• Call the number on the billing invoice.
• Call the IRS at 800-829-1040.