IRS scam calls are a persistent threat, with fraudsters impersonating IRS agents to steal personal information. Verizon users can take proactive steps to safeguard themselves against these scams.
What Are IRS Scam Calls?
IRS scam calls involve fraudsters posing as IRS agents, claiming individuals owe taxes and demanding immediate payment. These scammers often threaten arrest or deportation to instill fear and urgency. Such scams have defrauded thousands, with losses exceeding $1 million in some cases. (time.com)
How Do Scammers Operate?
Scammers typically use caller ID spoofing to display legitimate IRS numbers, making their calls appear authentic. They may also use official Verizon numbers to gain trust, as seen in previous scams targeting Verizon customers. (time.com)
How Can Verizon Users Protect Themselves?
1. Utilize Verizon's Call Filter Service
Verizon offers a free service called Call Filter, which alerts users to potential spam calls and allows them to block robocalls. A paid version provides additional features for $2.99/month. (robokiller.com)
2. Implement Robokiller's Advanced Call Blocking
Robokiller is an award-winning app that blocks 99% of spam calls and texts. It uses a global database of over 1.4 billion analyzed calls to protect users from known phone scams. Robokiller's patented audio fingerprinting technology employs machine learning to identify and block unwanted calls. (apps.apple.com)
3. Enable Call Screening Features
Robokiller's Call Screening feature helps block up to 99% of spam calls using live audio fingerprinting. It screens unknown callers by informing them that your number is protected by Robokiller and asking for their name and the reason for the call. If the call seems legitimate, Robokiller shares the caller’s name and reason with you, so you can decide whether to answer. (support.robokiller.com)
4. Report Suspicious Numbers
Users can report suspicious numbers to Robokiller, which helps update the global spam database, enhancing protection for all users. (robokiller.com)
Why Choose Robokiller Over Verizon's Call Filter?
While Verizon's Call Filter provides basic spam call alerts and blocking, Robokiller offers a more comprehensive solution with advanced features:
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Global Spam Database: Robokiller's database is continually updated with over 1.4 billion analyzed calls, offering broader protection. (apps.apple.com)
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Advanced Call Screening: Robokiller's Call Screening feature screens unknown callers by informing them that your number is protected and asking for their name and the reason for the call. (support.robokiller.com)
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Answer Bots: Robokiller's Answer Bots waste scammers' time with clever recorded messages, providing users with Robocall Revenge™. (robokiller.com)
How to Get Started with Robokiller
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Download the App: Available for iOS and Android devices.
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Set Up an Account: Follow the on-screen instructions to create your account.
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Customize Settings: Adjust call blocking and screening preferences to suit your needs.
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Stay Updated: Regularly update the app to benefit from the latest features and spam protection.
Conclusion
IRS scam calls are a significant threat, but Verizon users can take proactive steps to protect themselves. Utilizing services like Robokiller, which offers advanced call blocking and screening features, provides enhanced protection against these scams.
Highlights:
- IRS Phone Scam Is The Largest Ever, Published on Thursday, March 20
- 5 Arrested for Posing as IRS Agents in $2 Million Phone Scam, Published on Tuesday, May 24
