If You Get This Telephone Call, Hang Up!!!

The Internal Revenue Service has issued five warnings about telephone and e-mail scams aimed at defrauding you. If you receive any of these telephone calls or e-mail messages, do not fall for the con!

Telephone Warnings:
--Congress is still debating the details of an economic stimulus package that could put several hundred dollars or more into the pockets of most Americans. Even though it's not yet signed into law, the hucksters are out. In one scheme, people receive a phone call telling them that can only get this rebate check if they provide bank account information for direct deposit.
--In yet another telephone scam, the caller claims to be an IRS employee who notifies the hapless taxpayer that he or she has not cashed a refund check. The person is then asked to verify his or her bank account number.
--Bottom line: The IRS does not collect personal and financial information by telephone.

E-Mail Warnings:
--In a new scam, an official-looking e-mail notifies people that their tax return will be audited. They are instructed to click on links to complete forms with personal and account information. Do it, and you just gave away your identity.
--If you receive e-mail notification that you will only receive your income tax refund if you enter personal information on a special form, delete it ASAP. Do not fill out the form!
--Businesses and accountants are being sent e-mails that look like they are from the IRS with instructions to download information on tax law changes. Once those bogus files are downloaded, the scammer gains remote access to the PC's hard drive.
--Bottom line: Do not click on any e-mail link that purports to be from the IRS. It's guaranteed to be a hoax aimed at stealing your personal and financial information. If you receive a questionable e-mail, contact the IRS through phishing@irs.gov.