Telephone Scam
We have recieved word that there is an IRS-mimmicking telephone scam going around. The callers have identified themselves as with the Internal Revenue Service or with the Sheriff’s Office. The intent is to solicit payment from the victim for a fine.
The telephone numbers given when searched indicate that they are associated with scam calls. Victims are told they owe money to the organization and it must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer. If the victim refuses to cooperate, they are then threatened with arrest. Other characteristics of this scam include:
• Scammers use fake names and IRS badge numbers.
• Scammers may be able to recite the last four digits of a victim’s Social Security Number.
• Scammers spoof the IRS toll-free number on caller ID to make it appear that it’s the IRS calling.
• Victims hear background noise of other calls being conducted to mimic a call site.
• After threatening victims with jail time or driver’s license revocation, scammers hang up and others soon call back pretending to be from the local police or DMV, and the caller ID supports their claim.
