VALDOSTA – January 19, 2016 was the beginning of new tax season. Tax season brings an increase in Identify Theft and scams. One of the largest scams is the IRS Scam.

Callers not associated with any government agency call victims claiming to work for the IRS or some company affiliated with the IRS. The callers advise the victims that they have outstanding IRS debts and threaten the victims with arrest. The callers then demand that the victim purchase pre- paid cards, such as the Green Dot card, and give the caller the information on the card. The money is then withdrawn from the card.

Be aware that the IRS does not call those with outstanding IRS debts and threaten with arrest. Another scam is the IRS Phishing Email Scam. Victims will receive an email that appears to be from the IRS. Victims will be asked to enter their social security number which could lead to the theft of your identity. Be aware that the IRS does contact taxpayers by email. If anyone receives such a call or email, they are asked to contact the IRS and file a complaint.

Valdosta Police Department