Beware of IRS Scams

Corpus Christi Police Department

CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS (News Release) - Be aware that callers make aggressive phone calls posing as IRS agents, using fake names and bogus IRS identification badge numbers in hopes of stealing taxpayer money or personal information.

They may know a lot about their targets, and they usually alter the caller ID to make it look like the IRS is calling.

Victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a gift card or wire transfer. Victims may be threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license. In many cases, the caller becomes hostile and insulting. Victims may be told they have a refund due to try to trick them into sharing private information. If the phone isn't answered, the scammers often leave an “urgent” callback request.

Note that the IRS DOES NOT:

*Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail you a bill if you owe any taxes.

*Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.

*Demand payment without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.

*Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.