Multiple agencies warn about spike in IRS calls

At least two Mid-Missouri law enforcement agencies are warning about a scam where thieves are posing as the IRS to rip you off.

Both the Columbia Police Department and the Cole County Sheriff’s Department are getting complaints about the scam calls where the callers are demanding money and threatening jail time for people who don’t pay up.

It seems to be recurring racket. We talk about these scams so often, some viewers get sick and tired of hearing about it. Still, it’s causing a big mess for some people.

When you think you’re getting a call from the IRS, it’s easy to get flustered and forget about reason. But, there are a couple important things to keep in mind.

You know it’s a scam if the call is unexpected and unsolicited, especially if have not received letters in the mail.

The IRS says it will never tell you, out of the blue, you must pay now or you’ll be arrested!

Michael Devine from the IRS says the agency will never ask you to make any kind of payment on a GreenDot money order or any type of gift card. Devine says, “Anyone who tells you (that) you have to pay a government bill with a prepaid debit card or a wire transfer…that’s a big red flag because you’re not getting a receipt for it. We may call you if we’ve been trying to get hold of you and you haven’t answered our letters. We’re not gonna ask for personal information. We’re not gonna ask for credit card numbers, and we’re certainly never gonna demand that you make an immediate payment.

So, if you get the call, don’t get bamboozled! Hang up the phone. If they call back tell them you’re reporting the call to the authorities.

If you have any questions call the IRS, or visit the website by clicking here.