Beware of IRS tax scams ahead of April 18 deadline

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) is warning residents to be wary of scams ahead of the tax filing deadline on April 18.

The IRS and law enforcement officials estimate that thousands of taxpayers lose millions of dollars each year due to targeted tax scams.

According to a news release from the TDCI, some scammers pretend to be IRS representatives, and attempt to obtain private information through mail, phone calls and email.

The TDCI says that the IRS will never send text messages or contact people via social media to get personal information or collect a tax debt. Furthermore, the IRS will not demand immediate payment via a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. The IRS will also not threaten to immediately contact local police or law enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.

Tennesseans are reminded to always verify the identity of who they’re dealing with before making any financial payments or providing personal information.

If you suspect instances of IRS-related fraud, click here to report them or call (800) 366-4484.

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