What are common signs of a tax scam call?

Common signs include demands for immediate payment, threats of arrest, and requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers. The IRS will never contact you in these ways.

How can I report a suspected tax scam call?

Hang up immediately and report the call to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 800-366-4484 or use their online form.

What is Robokiller and how does it help prevent scam calls?

Robokiller is a call-blocking app that uses advanced AI technology to block 99% of spam calls and texts, offering real-time call screening and a global scammer database.

How to Protect Yourself from Tax Scam Calls: Essential Steps for Everyday Users

Tax scam calls are a prevalent threat, especially during tax season, with fraudsters impersonating the IRS to steal personal information and money. Understanding how to identify and protect yourself from these scams is crucial.

What Are Tax Scam Calls and How Do They Operate?

Tax scam calls involve fraudsters posing as IRS agents, claiming you owe taxes and demanding immediate payment. They often use threats of arrest or legal action to create a false sense of urgency. These scammers may request payment via unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers, which the IRS would never do. (irs.gov)

How Can You Recognize a Tax Scam Call?

The IRS will never:

Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card, or wire transfer.
Threaten to have you arrested for not paying taxes.
Demand payment without giving you an opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
Call unexpectedly about a tax refund.

If you receive such a call, it's likely a scam. (irs.gov)

What Should You Do If You Receive a Suspected Tax Scam Call?

Hang Up Immediately: Do not engage with the caller.
Report the Call: Contact the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at 800-366-4484 or use their online form.
Inform the IRS: Email phishing@irs.gov with "IRS Phone Scam" in the subject line.

Reporting these incidents helps authorities track and combat such scams. (irs.gov)

How Can You Prevent Tax Scam Calls?

Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls: The IRS initiates contact via mail, not phone calls.
Use Call-Blocking Technology: Implementing call-blocking apps can significantly reduce unwanted calls. Robokiller, for instance, blocks 99% of spam calls and texts, offering real-time call screening and a global scammer database of over 1.5 billion phone numbers. (robokiller.com)
Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: While this won't stop all scam calls, it can reduce the number of legitimate telemarketing calls you receive. (usa.gov)

How Does Robokiller Compare to Other Call-Blocking Apps?

Robokiller stands out by offering:

Advanced AI Technology: Utilizing machine learning and live audio fingerprinting to identify and block scam calls.
Comprehensive Coverage: Protecting users across all carriers in the U.S. and Canada.
User-Friendly Features: Including real-time call screening and a global scammer database.

In comparison, competitors like Nomorobo primarily focus on landline protection and may not offer the same level of comprehensive coverage. (robokiller.com)

What Are the Legal Aspects of Call Blocking and Reporting?

Using call-blocking apps is legal and an effective way to protect yourself from unwanted calls. Reporting scam calls to the appropriate authorities is also encouraged to help combat fraud. (usa.gov)

How Can You Educate Others About Tax Scam Calls?

Share Information: Inform friends and family about the signs of tax scams and the importance of reporting them.
Stay Updated: Regularly check resources like the IRS website for the latest information on tax scams.
Promote Call Blocking: Encourage the use of call-blocking technologies to reduce the impact of scam calls.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to tax scam calls.