HR Police warn of IRS phone scam

Victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer. If the victim refuses to cooperate, they are then threatened with arrest or other consequences.

The IRS states it does not and will not ask for credit card numbers over the phone, nor request a pre-paid debit card or wire transfer, according to Sgt. Don Cheli of Hood River Police Department.

Any contact from the IRS will most likely occur through the mail. If you know you owe taxes or you think you might owe taxes you should contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 and get more information.

“Please be vigilant against phone and email scams that use the IRS as a lure,” Cheli said.