Scammers prowling local phone lines even outside of tax season
REDDING, Calif. — It may not be tax season but scammers are prowling local phone lines. Law enforcement says it is important for victims to report scam calls to the Internal Revenue Service for further investigation.
Tuesday an Anderson resident received a call, which he traced back to Marion County, Florida. The caller left a threatening voicemail, claiming the man was under investigation for failing to pay taxes.
"A warrant under your name and your tax I.D. for tax fraud has been issued and the investigating team is investigating you and your family," the recording stated.
The voicemail went on to claim a lawsuit has been filed against the victim and his family if the resident did not send money.
The Shasta County Sheriff's Office Dispatch explained scam calls come in daily but victims should be proactive.
- Immediately alert close friends and family members, as they may be getting the same scam call.
- Block that number and any afterwards that are demanding money in a threatening way.
- Report every call to the IRS so they can include it in their investigations.
To contact the IRS, call (800)366-4484 or visit their website.