Beware of Bogus New IRS Phone Scam
The Internal Revenue Service recently issued a warning to individual taxpayers about a new telephone scam, reported numerous times across the country. In the latest deception, the fraudulent caller claims to work for the IRS and demands you make an immediate income tax payment through a prepaid debit card. The IRS impersonator furthers informs you that two certified letters were sent to your home but were returned as undeliverable. Upon rustling your feathers, the fraudulent IRS agent then threatens immediate arrest if you don’t make a payment using a prepaid debit card, claiming the card is linked to the EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System), primarily used to pay taxes via the internet or telephone.To make sure the payment is collected before you back out, the caller warns you not to contact a tax accountant preparer, an attorney or your local IRS office for an independent financial review until after the payment is made or your arrest is imminent. This should be your “red flag” moment; the IRS never threatens an abrupt arrest nor demands payment without allowing you to seek advice from a tax professional.Note that the IRS will never:
- Call to demand immediate payment from a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer;
- Threaten to arrest you for not paying taxes owed;
- Demand payment without allowing time for an appeals process;
- Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
Always keep in mind the IRS never threatens you with lawsuits, imprisonment or other enforcement action. Recognizing telltale signs of a typical tax scam could prevent you from becoming a victim of criminals impersonating IRS agents.For additional information on tax scams and tips regarding how to protect yourself, please refer to the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/uac/tax-scams-consumer-alertsAt Patrick & Robinson CPAs, we take pride in building trustworthy relationships with our clients. We’re the real deal: tax, assurance, business planning and financial forecasting services. Contact us at Office@CPAsite.com or 904-396-5400.
