(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Scammers are ramping up phone calls pretending to be from the IRS, warning victims they owe back taxes and must pay immediately, according to the Federal Trade Commission.
The FTC says callers often claim to represent a so-called "Tax Resolution Oversight Department" and offer to transfer victims to a "tax resolution officer." The goal is to scare people into handing over money or sensitive personal information.
"They play on your fears," the FTC warns, noting scammers may threaten to suspend a driver's license, file lawsuits, or even arrest or deport the person they call.
In some cases, callers claim they need to run a "red flag check" on your credit. The FTC says that request -- and the call itself -- is the real red flag.
What the IRS will not do
The Internal Revenue Service does not initiate contact by phone, text, or email about unpaid taxes.
"The truth is, the IRS's first contact with you will always be a letter in the mail," the FTC said.
The IRS also will never demand payment through prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, or cashier's checks -- common tactics used by scammers.
How the scam works
These calls are designed to steal Social Security numbers, drain bank accounts, or collect illegal "service fees," in addition to any money a victim sends.
How to protect yourself
The FTC recommends:
- Never share personal or financial information with an unexpected caller
- Verify directly through IRS.gov, using only contact information found on the official website
- Learn the signs of government imposter scams at ftc.gov/imposters
- Report scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Even if you believe you might owe back taxes, officials say to hang up and contact the IRS yourself using verified information from IRS.gov.
The FTC says staying informed is the best defense against tax-season scams.