Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro warned taxpayers about fake calls/scams from criminals pretending as agents of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
During the tax season, these criminals are busy making unsolicited calls to taxpayers. They try to con a potential victim by scaring them and demand immediate payment of a bogus tax bill or risk arrest by IRS agents. Scammers ask potential victims to send money through a prepaid credit card or wire transfer.
In addition, these scam artists use caller ID spoofing—using a caller ID to appear as if the IRS is calling. These scammers use IRS titles and fake badge to look legitimate and even use the person’s name, address, and other personal information.
Scammers use new technology and high-pressure tactics
In a statement, Shapiro noted that scammers are “using new technology and high-pressure tactics to get people to give out their personal information.”
“One popular tactic, especially during tax season, is scam artists impersonating the IRS and trying to scare you into paying them thousands of dollars. My Office is here to protect you, help you avoid being scammed, and go after these scammers anywhere we find them,” according to the Attorney General.
