ICYMI: Melrose Police Warn of Bogus 'IRS' Scammers

Melrose Police warn that particularly aggressive phone scammers masquerading as Internal Revenue Service officials have harassed residents in recent days, and the people of Melrose should not take threats from the bogus “IRS” seriously.

“When in doubt, hang up and call the police department,” Police Chief Michael L. Lyle said in a statement. “Do not, ever, give these criminals money.”

The scammers evidently bully potential victims with threats of jail time, lawsuits, and property seizures unless they pay up via pre-paid debit cards, Western Union, Money Gram or bank transfers.

Here are things Melrose residents should be wary of when called by individuals claiming to represent the IRS, according to police.

• The scammers may provide generic-sounding false names - “Bob Smith,” for instance - and false IRS badge numbers.
• They may know the last four digits of your social security number.
• It may appear as though they’re calling from the toll-free IRS number.
• They may send fake follow-up emails that appear to be from the IRS.
• They may use background noise sound effects to mimic a real call center.
• After the initial call, the scammers may call back impersonating police or DMV officials, complete with a seemingly legitimate phone number.

Melrose Police remind residents that the IRS never demands back taxes without giving citizens the chance to appeal the supposedly owed amount, never demands a specific payment method for back taxes, won’t accept credit or debit card information over the phone, and never calls local police to arrest anyone for not paying taxes.

Residents who encounter these phone scammers can call the real IRS at 1-800-829-1040, or just call Melrose Police at 781-665-1212