Accountants in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County Remind You to Watch Out for “IRS” Scams

If you don’t know how the IRS contacts and engages with taxpayers, you could fall prey to a scammer claiming they’re from the IRS. You might think people who get scammed lack street smarts, but scammers know what they’re doing. They’re persistent, and they’re always changing their tactics. Accountants in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County have probably all heard at least one story from a client who has received a scam call or email.

Specific Scam Techniques to Watch Out For

Scammers know how to make your phone’s caller ID look like the IRS is calling. They also know how to send emails with links to a page that looks like it could be an IRS page. They might tell you that you owe money, that they owe you money, or that you need to update your information. They might even have information about you that you think only the real IRS would have. Do not give them any information. Do not click any links. The IRS will always send a letter if you owe them money. They will not call asking for you to send them a prepaid debit card or asking for you to give them your credit card number. They will never threaten to deport you or have you arrested.

Believe it or not, scammers have even targeted tax preparers. In an email similar to the ones asking people to update their information with the IRS, they were looking for information. Most if not all accountants in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County wouldn’t be fooled by that!

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam

It’s not hard to go to irs.gov and contact them. Then you’ll know if the real IRS has something to communicate to you or not. You can also contact accountants in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County if you have any questions. More often than not, you can simply disregard any phone calls or emails if you haven’t received a bill in the actual mail. If you wish, you can report the attempted scam to the IRS.

For any assistance with the IRS, tax prep, or business consulting, CONTACT US or call (707) 799-2705. SCA is happy to help.

Susan C. Adamson is a CPA and business consultant in Santa Rosa, California.