Hello? Is This Really the IRS, or Just a Scam?

Conceptual,Illustration,Of,Online,Fraud,,Cyber,Crime,,Data,Hacking.,A

No one enjoys getting a call from the IRS, but getting a call from someone who claims to be from the IRS, but who is really just a scammer, is even worse. However, according to the country’s top tax agency, that is exactly the kind of sophisticated and elaborate scam that has been going on lately.

The IRS says that the scam has occurred all over the country and has even taken aim at recent immigrants. According to the IRS, the scammers use fake names and IRS ID numbers. The scammers also apparently already have detailed information about the people they call and they are also able to alter their caller ID number so it appears to be coming from the tax agency.

The con artists then claim that the taxpayer owes money to the IRS and demand prompt payment for the debt. They also threaten jail time, license suspension or even deportation in some cases. The IRS absolutely does not use these kinds of tactics.

According to the IRS website it will never do the following things when it calls:

  • Demand immediate payment. In fact, the IRS won’t even call you about taxes owed until mailing you first.
  • Demand that you pay taxes without letting you question or appeal the amount you reportedly owe.
  • Require you to use a specific payment method, like a prepaid debit card, for your taxes.
  • Ask for debit or credit card numbers over the phone.
  • Threaten to have you arrested by any law-enforcement groups for not paying your debt.

You can learn more about this and other tax-related scams by visiting the IRS consumer alerts page. You can also contact us at GROCO by clicking here.

Posted in ,

Bob Haney

Bob Haney, Creator of Heavenly Waffles   Interview Transcript: Alan Olsen This is Alan Olsen, and welcome to American dreams. My guest today is Bob Haney. Actually, I should correct that the chef Bob Haney, he is the founder and the creator of Heavenly Waffles. Bob, welcome to today’s show. Bob Haney Alan, thanks so much…

Mo Lidsky

Mo Lidsky

Mo Lidsky: The Refugee Boy that Grew Up to Empower Families for the Future A Journey Rooted in Resilience Mo Lidsky’s story begins in Ukraine, where he was born and raised. In his early juvenile years, he immigrated to the United States with his family, and this transition was challenging. As refugees leaving Eastern Europe,…

5 Powerful ESG, Business, and Investing Trends

Key ESG, Business, and Investing Trends. What does the future hold for businesses navigating the complexities of sustainability and finance? A recent American Dreams Show interview by Host, Alan Olsen, of Michael Meehan, titled “The Future of ESG and Impact Investing with Michael Meehan“, addressed 5 powerful ESG, business, and investing trends. Michael, Co-founder of…

The Power of Design Packaging: 4 Steps for Successful Entrepreneurs

The Power of Design Packaging: 4 Steps Make Successful Entrepreneurs

What is design packaging, how can it help entrepreneurs be successful, and where to learn more about it? In a world where first impressions are everything, the art of design packaging has emerged as a critical factor in setting businesses apart. Few understand this more profoundly than Randi Brill, Chief Creative Officer of JUST CALL…