Hi, I'm Patrick, and I work for the IRS. Have you received a videophone call through Video Relay Service (VRS) from someone who claimed to be with the IRS? It might be a scam. In fact, if you're surprised to get a call from the IRS, it probably isn't the real IRS calling you. There have been reports of scammers trying to get your personal information through VRS across the country. Every day, such scammers come up with new ways to steal your identity and some other personal information. In addition, some of these scammers pretend to be from the IRS and their goal is to take your money. Be aware that scammers can and do use video relay services to try to rip off deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Don't become a victim. Never give your personal information to anyone you don't know. Do not automatically trust calls just because they are made through VRS. VRS interpreters do not screen calls for validity. The IRS has procedures in place for people with tax issues. The real IRS Will Never: • Demand immediate payment and require the payment be made a specific way, such as on a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. In most cases, we will not call you about taxes you owe without first having mailed you a bill. • Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying. • Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe. • Ask for credit or debit card numbers through VRS. To learn more about the latest tax phone scams and how to protect yourself, go to our website, IRS.gov, and type "scam" in the search field. Also visit www.youtube.com/irsvideosasl.
