Double Warnings About the IRS Scam

The IRS scam is rearing its ugly head again.  In spite of repeated warnings that calls from someone claiming to be from the IRS are a scam, local residents are still being frightened by threats of lawsuits if they don’t send money or private information to the caller.

The Broome County Office for Aging say they have gotten a number of reports lately about getting the threatening calls.

New York State Police have also put out a warning about the scam, which some authorities caution could even escalate as it gets closer to the holidays and tax season.

The State Police advisory was issued just days after the Broome Office for Aging requested announcements publicizing the scam.

Residents can notify their local police agency and report incidents to the Inspector General at 1-800-366-4484.

The State Police advise residents to contact their nearest IRS office.

Complaints can also be made to the New York State Attorney General Consumer Protection Line at 1-800-771-7755.

Local authorities have said it can be difficult to trace where the calls are coming from.

Residents are reminded the IRS never calls or email people about tax issues.  If there is a problem, a taxpayer would be notified by regular mail.  The IRS also never requests personal identification information or instruct residents to purchase a debit card.