Are you receiving harassing phone calls from Alleged “Government Officials” or purported “debt collectors” threatening you saying there is a warrant out for your arrest?
As previously reported this typical scam involves a caller claiming to be an IRS Agent, debt collector, or Police Officer who claims the victim is delinquent on back taxes or an old payday loan and must make payment to avoid legal consequences. There are several variations of this scam in which the caller tells the victim that there are outstanding warrants for the victim’s arrest. The caller claims that the basis of the warrant(s) is non-payment of the underlying loan or back taxes. The caller will then demand payment via Western Union, MoneyGram or pre-paid “Green Dot Cards” in order to stop the police from making an immediate arrest.
The fraudsters relentlessly call the victim’s home, cell phone, and place of employment in attempts to obtain payment. The callers refuse to provide information regarding the alleged payday loan or any documentation and become verbally abusive when questioned.
The high-pressure collection tactics used by the scammers is frightening and so intimidating that people are sending in money in fear they will be arrested.
Remember..The IRS will always attempt to contact a taxpayer by mail. If a taxpayer receives a phone call from someone claiming to be calling from the IRS they should know the IRS will never ask for payment to be made by a specific method or specific brand of credit card. If there is any question about a taxpayer’s federal tax situation or if a taxpayer wishes to check if they have an outstanding federal tax debt they can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Stay Alert - Be Vigilant -- Stay Safe!!
If you have any questions or concerns please contact Sgt Chris Yagelski 219.873.1461 ext #333 or email ASKACOP@Emichigancity.com