Summertime Is Scam Time. Don't Be a Victim!

Last updated on Monday, June 18, 2018

(INDIANAPOLIS) - The Indiana Department of Revenue (DOR) is reminding taxpayers that data thieves don’t take a summer vacation.

In fact, summertime tends to be a favorite period for tax scammers, as many individuals are awaiting a response from DOR or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) after filing their tax returns.

Tax scammers try to get individuals to disclose personal information, such as their Social Security number, account information and/or passwords. Scams often come through as phone or email scams, however social media may also be used to target victims.

Here are some telltale signs of a scam:

The caller demands immediate payment using a specific payment method, such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer.
The caller threatens to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
The caller asks for a credit or debit card number.
The caller demands that taxes be paid without allowing the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.

"If you receive a call or email that seems suspicious, do not give out any personal information and hang up immediately," said DOR Commissioner Adam Krupp. "Never hesitate to contact DOR directly to determine if any call or email received is legitimate. We are able to confirm the validity of the call and put you in contact with the appropriate representative, if needed. "

Remember, criminals can work around caller ID to appear to be from anywhere in the country, including from a DOR or IRS office. If a customer questions the validity of call received from someone identifying themselves as a representative from either tax agency, DOR encourages you to hang up and call the agency directly to check on the credibility of the call.

In addition, neither DOR nor the IRS will initiate contact with customers by email to request personal or financial information. Anyone receiving suspicious emails or other forms of communication related to taxes should contact DOR at investigations@dor.in.gov or the IRS at phishing@irs.gov.

Information regarding reported tax scams is available on the DOR website at www.in.gov/dor/6349.htm.

Customers may call DOR Customer Service at 317-232-2240, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST with any questions or concerns.

1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com

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