The Internal Revenue Service said to watch out — criminals are using the agency’s good name to scam money out of victims.
The hoax starts with a telephone call from someone who identifies as an IRS agent, WIBQ reported. The caller then tells the listener that he or she owes money and to pay immediately via a wire transfer or credit card.
The scammers have also found a way to tap into the caller ID system so that it appears on phones as if they are truly from the IRS, the local station said.
They’ve also moved their scam online and contacted victims via email.
One tip it’s a hoax: The IRS generally sends letters, and agents don’t insist on immediate payment via a credit card, WIBQ reported.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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