From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
TRUSSVILLE — Trussville Police are reaching out to those getting phone calls from people pretending to the the IRS.
The Metro Area Crime Center has received reports from local jurisdictions of fake agents calling and threatening to arrest people if they do not pay a fine over the phone. The phone number on Caller ID can be disguised to look like a legitimate number. Here is the basic script potential victims will hear:
1. This is “fill in the blank government agency” (IRS, local police, etc.)
2. You have done something wrong (tax problems, missed jury duty, etc.)
3. You will have the local police called on you, warrant issued, arrest, etc.
4. To avoid this, you can take care of payment over the phone
Trussville Police said if the caller says anything about you going to purchase gift cards or wiring cash it’s a scam. They recommend you hang up the phone. Never give personal information over the phone. Hang up the phone. Do not give them any personal information.
Learn more about the IRS Scam and other scams occurring in our area by visiting https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts.