The Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office reports Internal Revenue Service (IRS) phone scams are again appearing in the region, this time using the agency’s own phone number. Last week, authorities were notified of the attempt by a citizen who had fallen victim to the scam. According to the report, the call appeared to originate from local law enforcement, as the Sheriff’s Office appeared on the caller ID. The scammer claimed to be with the IRS and told the victim he would be taken into custody if he did not immediately pay outstanding fines using prepaid debit cards. The IRS does not threaten arrest over the phone or demand payment in this manner, and the Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office reminds citizens that any caller that requires payment by gift cards or prepaid debit cards is highly suspicious. The IRS is also warning taxpayers that the frequency of these fraudulent practices is likely to increase as Tax Day approaches.
