Impersonation Phone Scams

Impersonation phone scams continue to be a major issue, particularly during the holidays. Scammers use spoofed phone numbers, often making it look like the call is coming from a government line, and claim you owe back taxes.

They may threaten arrest, license suspension, or other legal actions to force you into making instant payments or divulging personal data.

The IRS does not call taxpayers using threats of arrest or demand immediate payment over the phone. If you receive such a call, hang up and verify any claims using official IRS contact numbers.

Documenting the call or reporting it to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration can also help authorities track and shut down scam operations.