What Are IRS Impersonation Scams?

IRS impersonation scams involve fraudulent calls or messages from individuals pretending to represent the Internal Revenue Service. These scammers often threaten legal action or demand immediate payment for fake tax debts.

How Do They Work?

Scammers typically:

• Claim you owe back taxes and must pay immediately.
• Threaten arrest, deportation, or suspension of your Social Security number.
• Demand payment via untraceable methods like gift cards or wire transfers.
• Use fake IRS badge numbers and caller ID spoofing to appear legitimate.

Examples of IRS Impersonation Scams

IRS impersonation scams are designed to intimidate and deceive individuals into making payments or revealing sensitive information. Below are common examples:

• Threatening Phone Calls: A scammer calls claiming to be from the IRS, stating, "You have unpaid taxes, and if you do not pay immediately, legal action will be taken against you." They demand payment through untraceable methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
• Caller ID Spoofing: Fraudsters use technology to display a legitimate-looking IRS phone number on caller ID. This tactic makes their claims appear credible, increasing the likelihood that victims will comply with their demands.
• Suspension of Social Security Number: Scammers claim that your Social Security number has been suspended due to unpaid taxes and that immediate payment is required to reactivate it. This creates urgency and fear, prompting victims to pay.
• Fake Tax Refund Scams: Fraudsters inform victims that they are eligible for a tax refund but need to verify their personal and banking information. This data is then used for identity theft or unauthorized transactions.
• Voicemail and Text Message Scams: Victims receive prerecorded messages or text alerts claiming to be from the IRS, urging them to call back or click a link to resolve an urgent tax issue. These links often lead to phishing websites designed to steal information.

How to Avoid IRS Impersonation Scams

• The IRS will never call to demand immediate payment.
• Do not provide personal information over the phone.
• Verify any claims by contacting the IRS directly at their official number.
• Hang up immediately if the caller threatens or pressures you.

Category

Phone Scam