The South River Police Department has seen a recent increase in calls from borough residents reporting they have been contacted by scammers posing as the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) demanding payment for past due taxes.
In most cases, these scams are attempted via telephone but they have also been known to be attempted via email, regular mail and various other methods, according to information provided by the department.
Residents are reminded to be aware of the following red flags which are all tactics scammers may utilize to steal your money.
The IRS does not:
1. Call you to demand immediate payment. The IRS will not call about taxes you owe without first mailing you a bill.
2. Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the chance to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.
3. Require you to use a certain payment method for your taxes, such as a prepaid debit card.
4. Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
5. Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement to have you arrested for not paying.
6. Use unsolicited email, text messages or any social media to discuss your personal tax issues.
IRS scam attempts can be reported at www.tigta.gov
If you are unsure if you owe taxes, visit www.irs.gov/uac/Report-Phishing for information on how to contact the IRS to inquire if you do.