Watch Out For IRS Impersonators This Tax Season: Cops

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — A new wave of scams is hitting consumers, just in time for tax season. The scammers pose as IRS agents and call victims to tell them they owe money on taxes. These scammers use threats of arrest, revoked drivers licenses, and deportation to pressure victims into sending money.

Police say IRS scammers use advanced technology to make it look like they're calling from an actual government phone number. Once they have you on the phone, the caller may present a fake badge number and may even give your name and address to appear legitimate.

The goal of these scammers is often to get the victim to give their debit or credit card information or to wire money to them.

The Downers Grove Police Department recently shared some tips from the IRS to help thwart scammers during tax season. It's important to be aware of some things the IRS will not do:

• Call to demand payment for back taxes before a bill is sent
• Demand payment for taxes without allowing you to appeal
• Require a specific payment method by phone
• Threaten arrest or deportation

If you have received a call from someone you believe to be an IRS scammer, police advise you to hang up immediately and not to share personal information. The IRS has set up a webpage for consumers to report IRS Impersonation Scams. Victims can also report IRS scams by calling Treasury Inspector General Administration at (800) 366-4484.

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