The original item was published from 2/27/2017 3:28:20 PM to 4/16/2017 12:00:01 AM.

News Flash

City Marshal/Police

Posted on: February 27, 2017

[ARCHIVED] TAX SEASON IS HERE, BUT SO IS SCAMMING

It’s time to prepare your taxes for a possible refund, but beware of the scammers. With many tax documents being given out and sent, scammers are capitalizing on attempts to steal your money. It may seem like a legitimate phone call from an IRS Agent, but in reality it’s a scammer who wants you to pay back taxes or fines. The reality is that no taxes are due and the scammer will be profiting off of you.

Tax season is also a busy time for other fraudulent activity. Identity thieves try to beat you to the punch in filing your tax return. Although safeguards are in place, the best defense is to file as early as possible if you are expecting a refund. Direct Deposit is one of the safest ways to receive your refund, since thieves are not able to intercept the transfer like they could do with a check.

TIPS TO PREVENT BEING SCAMMED:

-Don’t give personal information out unless you know the person requesting is genuine

-Verify any calls received by advising the representative you will call them back at the number you have on file.

-Legitimate companies and government agencies would never ask you to purchase a prepaid debit/gift card. Also be suspicious of requests to use money sending services.

If you are unsure of the legitimacy of a phone call or letter you received, don’t give them your personal or financial information. Please call the DeFuniak Springs Police at 892-8513 or your local law enforcement agency for help. You may also find information on the IRS's website at: https://www.irs.gov/uac/tax-scams-consumer-alerts

IRS Website on Scam Prevention