Tax scam calls are a prevalent threat, especially during tax season, with fraudsters impersonating the IRS to steal personal information and money. In 2023, Americans lost over $394 million to government impersonation scams, a 63% increase from 2022. (aarp.org) To protect yourself, consider the following strategies:
1. How Can Call-Blocking Apps Help Prevent Tax Scam Calls?
Call-blocking apps act as filters, identifying and blocking potential scam calls before they reach you. These apps use data from users, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and other sources to predict which calls are likely scams. Some apps are free, while others charge a fee. (consumer.ftc.gov)
2. What Services Do Mobile Carriers Offer to Block Scam Calls?
Many mobile carriers provide free or paid services to block scam calls:
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AT&T: Offers Call Protect, which displays a “V” (for verified) on your caller ID for legitimate calls and blocks potentially fraudulent calls by giving a busy signal. (consumerreports.org)
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T-Mobile: Provides Scam ID and Scam Block. Scam ID identifies and tags suspicious calls, while Scam Block blocks calls before they ring. (consumerreports.org)
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Verizon: Offers Call Filter, which identifies and blocks spam calls. (consumerreports.org)
3. How Can Built-in Phone Features Assist in Blocking Scam Calls?
Both Android and iPhone devices have built-in features to help block scam calls:
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Android: Go to the Phone app, then Settings, then Blocked numbers, and turn on Unknown. (consumerreports.org)
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iPhone: Go to Settings, then Phone, then choose Silence Unknown Callers. (consumerreports.org)
4. How Does the National Do Not Call Registry Help?
Registering your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry can reduce unsolicited calls. While it won't stop all scam calls, it blocks most legitimate sales calls, allowing you to focus on potential scams. (consumerreports.org)
5. What Are the Red Flags of Tax Scam Calls?
Be cautious of calls claiming to be from the IRS that:
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Threaten immediate arrest or legal action.
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Demand immediate payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency.
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Use caller ID spoofing to appear as if they're from the IRS.
The IRS will never initiate contact by phone, email, text, or social media. (aarp.org)
6. How Can You Report Scam Calls?
If you receive a scam call, report it to the FTC and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This helps authorities track and take action against scammers. (bbb.org)
7. How Does Robokiller Compare to Other Call-Blocking Solutions?
Robokiller is a market-leading solution that offers advanced features to block scam calls, including tax scams. Unlike some competitors, Robokiller provides real-time spam call blocking, personalized block lists, and detailed analytics to help users understand and manage unwanted calls effectively.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to tax scam calls and protect your personal information.
