Tonkawa Police Chief John Whitham says residents need to beware of phone calls from bogus IRS agents and other impostors.
“Phony IRS agents reach you by phone, claiming you owe money. Threatening to take legal action, they urge you to send payment by money order, cashier’s check or prepaid debit card. In some cases, they insist that you complete the transaction while you’re still on the phone. If you answer your phone and believe it’s a scam, hang up right away. Don’t engage the caller. Tell your friends so that they’re aware of it, too, Chief Whitham said.
“If you believe you have been a victim of an IRS Impersonation Scam, call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 for more information. You can also file a report on the website of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Don’t be pressured into making a spur of the moment payment. Don’t worry, the Tonkawa Police Department will not be arresting you for extortion committed by scammers.” concluded Whitham.
