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Here at the FTC, we think about scams all day long. What are the scammers’ new angles? How can we keep ahead of them? We hear from people about the scams they see, and we turn that into tips people use to spot and avoid scams.

But scammers find FTC staff, just as they find the rest of America. My colleagues and I have even gotten calls on our work phones, offering reduced credit card interest rates, or claiming to be tech support calling about problems with our computers. We also get the calls at home. In fact, someone claiming to work for the IRS called my house just last week:

This has all the signs of an IRS imposter scam. In fact, the IRS won’t call out of the blue to ask for payment, won’t demand a specific form of payment, and won’t leave a message threatening to sue you if you don’t pay right away. Have you gotten a bogus IRS call like this? If you did, report the call to the FTC and to TIGTA – include the phone number it came from, along with any details you have.

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Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts
Scams
Government Impersonators
IRS Impersonators

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The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.

  • We won’t post off-topic comments, repeated identical comments, or comments that include sales pitches or promotions.
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  • We won’t post comments that include personal information, like Social Security numbers, account numbers, home addresses, and email addresses. To file a detailed report about a scam, go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

We don't edit comments to remove objectionable content, so please ensure that your comment contains none of the above. The comments posted on this blog become part of the public domain. To protect your privacy and the privacy of other people, please do not include personal information. Opinions in comments that appear in this blog belong to the individuals who expressed them. They do not belong to or represent views of the Federal Trade Commission.

Pgrantdar
July 22, 2015
Its probably on here somewhere, but reiterate, DO NOT CALL BACK ON THE PHONE NUMBER THEY PROVIDE. The scammers can hook into your phone service and charge calls and services to your number. Especially cell and smart phones.
Cathy
July 22, 2015
I recieved a call last night, they left a meesage for me to call back 425-954-6859. They saids they were the IRS and I owed back taxes. started to threating me, they are going to have me arrested, granish my wages, take my drivers licenise, etc... SCARED the crap out of me. Thank goodness for my office mate, she made me hang up and showed me this and the IRS web site. I almost gave them my information I was so scared even though I know I don't owe taxes and have had an accountant do them for the past 20 years.
Jailbird
July 22, 2015
Got an IRS scam call today from 360-262-6474. Heartbeat of panic followed closely by a realization of it being bogus.
HStar34
July 24, 2015
I just received a call, saying there was a tax audit and something about fraud in my name!
PKaustin
July 24, 2015
got a call 2xs today from 210 888 8376 IRS nasty sounding Asian guy figured it was a scam.. SOBs
Stands With A Fist
July 25, 2015
Received same type of call that is in the audio clip except it was a mans voice. Caller ID shows New York, NY. Caller ID # as well as call back number on message is 718-303-2594. They called my landline four times yesterday. It is so aggravating. I really do fear for the elderly as well as young/inexperienced people who might call back thinking they really are in some kind of trouble. I have filed complaints with both the FTC & TIGTA. I also used the reverse lookup at white pages.com and reported the number there. Ironically...when I first looked up the number I was able to see the other comments...if I look it up now-it states that the "Owners name is hidden by white pages for privacy reasons." Isn't that precious?!?!
CWM
July 25, 2015
I received the scam call from 509-588-7386
Willow
July 27, 2015
People are using this number with the same scam: 561-692-7472
Bonnie
July 27, 2015
I am receiving continual phone calls from 561-692-7472. I have actually returned the call and notified them that I know they are scammers and to remove my number from their list. They call every 30 minutes or so. I work from home, so I can't turn off my ringer. This is getting extremely annoying and frustrating. Can anything be done to stop the harassment?
ctressler
July 27, 2015

In reply to by Bonnie

The best thing to do is file a complaint with the FTC and ignore any additional calls you get. You also can look into call blocking solutions. Your phone carrier might be able to block the number, but first ask if there is a fee for blocking. Our article Phone Scams has additional info that might be helpful.

rancher
July 27, 2015
same call, receive several times this time from 360-556-2212
prumley
July 28, 2015
Have received numerous calls from this number and I am a government employee. This need to be investigated soon. Older people getting this are being frightened.
Jim B
August 03, 2015
We've had this twice. The first time my wife got the call. She paniced and quickly called me (I'm a geek). I said "relax, the IRS does not call people and threaten with arrest". Got another one today. I played along with the caller: Caller: You owe $7,839 on your 2011 taxes. You must pay immediately or we will have you arrested. Me: 2011 taxes? What was my AGI from the Form 1040 for that year? I did recieve a written request from the IRS back in late 2012 with questions on some investment losses. Is this related to that? I recieved a letter from the IRS in 2013 that had a small penalty which I paid through one of the banks linked from the IRS website. Is this concerning that? Caller: Yes. You owe us $7,839. Me: How was that calculated? Which form? I'll need to talk to my CPA. Caller: We are going to arrest you today if you don't pay immediately. Me: Ok. I'll go pay through one of the banks linked on the IRS website. Caller: No. You have to pay now as the police have already been called. Here's the bitcoin account to credit. Me: Bitcoin? Why is this not linked on the official IRS website. Since when does the US government use bitcoin? Click.
cheetabump
July 29, 2015
calls coming in for three days, same message left on machine. Claiming to be IRS and there is a lawsuit against us and to call them back. The number on our system shows these numbers: 0115092884639 & 0115094923664. Obviously, these are not legit phone numbers. The number they ask us to call back is 501-492-3664. I have reported these to FTC and TIGA. I think the same as others have reported here: Why can't the IRS or TIGA call those numbers and track them. Maybe they are and since I see the call back number varies, they are having trouble themselves catching up to the moving targets.
blueyes
July 29, 2015
I rec'd call today from 206.801.1872 - same as others commented re: IRS filing lawsuit. Did not respond, filed a complaint with FTC right away.
Tay
July 29, 2015
identity theft, imposter, IRS, phone, scam Privacy & Identity Just received a call from 613-01 saying they are the IRS
gkk
July 29, 2015
Heart dropped when heard call left on machine from 917-310-3490 - saying IRS has suit against us & to contact immediately. Upon research line blocked & busy on back. Will be contacting IRS/Fraud dept. Also - thanks for posting these comments reassuring when so frustrated & upset
I know better
July 31, 2015
I have been getting these calls recently. I haven't had the opportunity to speak with anyone because there is no one on the line when I pick up. Whenever the answering machine picks it up it's just a recording. I can't wait to talk to an actual live person and throw insults at him and waste his time.
horrible scam
July 31, 2015
got the same scam from a human voice maybe indian accent from number 727-755 7032 The Irs will does not harasses or threatens people over the phone. i said ill report him to the police and hung up on me . I did contact the IRS by email about it. this guy did pick the phone when i Called back and said to be a federal agent. I had nothing to be scared for but it was scary to have someone bombing you with treats
worriednow
August 01, 2015
I received what i suspected was a scam call from a pre-recorded message of a male voice w/an accent i couldnt identify saying that they were calling fromTax Crime Investigations Unit of the IRS+that the reason for the call was to inform me that an S warrant was issued against me+my property.+ to call back (360) 262-6474 as soon as possible. It did freak me out so I stupidly called back+of course there was no answer. My concern is if they can now make charges or calls w/my cell #, since I have a smart phone+ what if anything, can I do to not b charged for calls I did not make? Is there any way to protect myself? If anyone has any real knowledge about this, I would greatly appreciate a response. Thank-u.
Risiculous
August 03, 2015
I live in Berks County Pennsylvania and just received a scam message. Really pisses me off. It showed Washington DC on my caller ID. The guy barely spoke English and told me to call back in 10 minutes. Is there anyway to report it?
Irked in NC
August 03, 2015
Got the call twice today telling me to call 509-288-4649. Of course I did not, but I see all these complaints and wonder why the FCC or FTC or FBI can't do anything about it?
joshua
August 05, 2015
I just got a call yesterday from a NY number while I was asleep and saw I had a voicemail and I listened and it was a automated message, a female voice. She didn't say any name she just said it was from Irs and told me to call back and not disregard this message beforethey take action against me. I thought it was strange calling me out of the blue like that so I immediately went online and searched the voicemail and the phone number, that's when I found out it was a scam. I just ignored and didn't call back. I will admit I was kind of nervous until I read about it online. Plus I figured if I did do something wrong theywould have contacted me a lot earlier.
Don't use your…
August 05, 2015
When is the FCC and government going to put an end to these calls????? Whether it's the IRS scam or Microsoft Computer scam they keep calling even after reported. Now I know why people get rid of their home phones. When they are allowed to call cell phones, maybe then something or someone other than the government will really do something about it!
Patti
August 05, 2015
IRS Telephone Scam - just received a phone call from 509 295 6815 stating this was my last notice that the IRS was taking me to court for something and I needed to call them back. I did not call them back as my understanding is that the IRS will mail you, not call you, if there is an issue. But figured having the telephone number in the file may help. Sounded pretty bad and was scary. Hope you catch these people.
Bug
August 05, 2015
Call received from Washington State 509-346-6059. Automated call saying the IRS was suing me please call back ASAP. I did not.
Missy
August 06, 2015
Got a call on my cell phone yesterday from a number I didn't recognize, so I let it go to voicemail. A guy with a very thick Indian accent left a ridiculous message, stating that he was Officer David Murphy with the IRS. He said that it was an urgent matter and that I, or my attorney, must return the call ASAP. He said something really stupid at the end, like if I didn't return his call then 'God help me'. LOL. The phone number is 703-634-0289. I filed a complaint with the FTC. But for anyone getting these calls, please know that the IRS won't call you regarding outstanding taxes or unfiled tax returns. They will send you notices via US mail. If the matter escalates, they will send it certified mail. And if you don't pay taxes owed, they won't send police or the sheriff to your house to arrest you. They will send multiple notices. If they never hear from you, they eventually just put a lien on your bank account and take the money!
Anna
August 06, 2015
Had this happened to me today. Never thought I'd fall for a scam like this, but I did. I did money gram $1400. What is more, they had me call my friends asking for more cash (!) thankfully no one had so much money to borrow me within next 10-15 minutes (!!!) the whole thing makes me cry. It was a very traumatic experience.
AnnoyedGPF
August 07, 2015
I just received a call on my mobile from 509-207-4042 (Republic, WA?) with a similar scam message. Since I wasn't familiar with the number, I let it go to voicemail. I was left the following message by a "computer generated" voice: "The reason for this call is to inform you that the IRS is filing a lawsuit against you. To get more information about this case file, please call immediately on our department number 509-207-4042. I repeat 509-207-4042. Thank you." This is the second time today I get the same message from a different phone number. Can't wait to see these A-holes on the new getting busted...
Canadian
August 07, 2015
I received a vm from Officer Jonathon/Jonathan Wright from the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) saying they discovered fraud and to call him back - he didn't leave a number. I found it strange he had a heavy East Indian accent but a very English name. I input his name etc online and found this website. Apparently Jonathan Wright works for both the US and Canadian governments. He gets around. What a nasty scam. Thank you for this website!
alex
August 13, 2015
I've gotten the same call 2 or three times the number i"m told to call is 509-288-4620. My german shepard is still waiting at the door for them to show up slobbering. so now i don't answer my line line just let it go to voice mail. Hopefully they don't get my cell number
sallybee
August 17, 2015
Add this phone number to the IRS scams: 360-322-4859
FromThe808
August 17, 2015
This scam appears to still be going strong. I received a similar message to the others posted here from robo- Special Agent Derek Brown and I was instructed to call 509-207-4501, otherwise the IRS would start "legal proceedings".
NYC bridge & t…
August 18, 2015
This is the number the scammers used today: 509-790-0581 The person (automaton) did not leave a name and did not name the person being targeted.
i'll-b-damned
August 18, 2015
we arent even listed The new # they are using ...or requesting to be called back at (509) 295-6448 If that is india ...I cant even afford that call will have to look up the area code LOL... might use my cell phone and tell them I am a drug dealer with no reported income.
RO doublecross
August 19, 2015
I missed a call from 1-855 537-8481. They left no message but the number looked familiar. I googled it and it looks to be a irs scam number. Someone asked earlier about number ownership so if the USA can snoop to the degree I've read about, why can't they find a phone number owner.
Mark
August 19, 2015
Got several calls from a 206-792-9471 number saying it was the IRS in Seattle Washington. Called it back and a someone with an ASIAN voice said the IRS was filling a suit in court against me. I told them to send me something in the mail and never call again. I called and reported the scam and number. I know I do not owe the IRS anything.
Sick&Tired
August 20, 2015
Got the IRS scam call from 914-357-4480 claiming they have a lawsuit against me. Called the number back but keeping getting busy signal.
JWB
August 20, 2015
It's best to ignore these calls. They will only make you mad. I was having a bad day anyway when they called me. I told them if they wanted me or my money to come get it and bring a box with them. They ask why a box. How stupid can you be. I told him to ship you back to where you came from.
Bonnie
August 21, 2015
I got 4 of these calls in the past 24 hours, claiming to be IRS. 360-566-2325. this is rediculous, happened to me once before and eventually they stopped. The message that you can hear above, is the exact message I got over the phone, just hang up..
kona gold
August 24, 2015

Thanks for being around. Im the guy that thought he was going to put a floor map on Goemmap apps,

Imknow of One Aenior housei g low income place That actually is well run Qnd does Everything possible formth residnets,'sombefore we go into the feildmimget all kinds of Info legal stuff how

To vid, i was chomping at the bit I tell you. So just about to head out and im prompted to pickup a couple of free apps to help on my way, GPS, some radio thing n im told To wait to get the varification number before i head out...

The voice tells me the number i choice" call me" instead of text" as Soon As She hung up a box appeared and i heard these guys telling me to put my number in the box so i can go already but the voice with the numbers told me "don't give those numbers to anyone, ever and no one from google will ever ask you for them" they ask why arent i giving up the varification code i told them what the voice had instucted me to do and wham i was here reading all your great info also let me say Mr K.zim from all of us thank you and Mr Dante man you are killin' the bad guys. Mahalo nui and Aloha

Gime a break
August 24, 2015
this time they used 509 779-2332.. IRS...heheheh..from Mumbai!!
Google helps
August 24, 2015
Got a call from 206-201-2393 claiming they're the IRS and filing a lawsuit. Thank goodness I didn't answer the call. Left the message to call that same number back. Called and it just kept ringing. Knowing IRS had nothing on me I googled it and sure enough all of you are receiving the same robotic call.
history buff
August 25, 2015

In reply to by Google helps

Got this robo call the other day. I knew it was a scam but I didn't have time to write down the call back number. If this happens again, I'm going to tell them that the call is being recorded and I want to meet up with them and bring my brother -in-law who is a NYC tax attorney. Then, I also have a whistle next to my phone that I will use....hopefully blow out their ear drums.
Luke
August 25, 2015
Just received a call from 360-200-4315 with exactly the same message played on this page. Thanks for keeping this going and verifying what I pretty much knew. I cannot believe people can just misrepresent themselves like this and get away with it. Waht do i actually pay my taxes for to the IRS?
Im not stupid
August 26, 2015
the number of the day is 206 395 3687- I called back and a indian guy by the name of Jacob Brown. I have had back taxes BUT IRS sends letters not threatening imprisonment!! I feel sorry for those they scare
noahcrook
August 26, 2015
I get these scam calls often so I respond in "Pig Latin" that they do not understand. One caller said "I do not understand your language and is there anyone there who speaks English?" That's the end of the calls.
ExactWords
August 26, 2015
We received the following robo call on our answering machine at 11:59 am from 202 738-1074 (Male Voice): "IRS is filing a lawsuit against you either press 1 to get connected with your case officer or call immediately on our department number 202 738 1074 I repeat 202 738 1074." A few months ago we received a very similar message but from 206 801 1872. And again, recorded it as follows (Female Voice): "The reason of this call is to inform you that IRS is filing lawsuit against you, to get more information about the case file please call immediately on 206 801 1872 I repeat 206 801 1872 I thank you." It is interesting that a few of the small words are missing like "the" IRS and "a" lawsuit.
ik2344
August 27, 2015
First, thanks for this post. It really helped. I received a similar call today from a lady who claimed her name was Amy Johnson saying that I owed the IRS and that I was charged with tax evasion. She also said that an arrest warrant has been issued against me. She then transfered me to her supervisor called Mark Johnson - heavy Indian accent - who said that $5,981 and that I needed to send the money ASAP. They order you to stay on the line until you make the payment. After going through the panic and taking a step back, I did some research and found similar instances that confirmed to me that this was a fraud and an IRS imposter. Please BEWARE!
sheri
August 27, 2015
Same deal - a couple different numbers: 540-699-1528 757-694-0275. I finally got them to admit they are not the IRS. they are based in Islamabad and using phone numbers based in Virginia
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