Dayton Police say scammers are at it again.
After Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine warned Ohioans were being targeted by tax scammers this summer, a new round seems to have started.
In the latest complaint, this one from Columbus, the woman caller told police that she received a similar call. The phone number from the scammer had our 937 area code.
Here's out the scam usually works.
A con artist calls a consumer claiming to represent the IRS. The caller tells the consumer he or she owes money for back taxes, or is under investigation for tax fraud. Then the caller tells the consumer to correct the issue, they should send a payment a prepaid card. Once the money is sent, it is nearly impossible to recover.
The phone number that appears on the consumer's caller ID is usually 202 (Washington DC) area code, but the number likely is "spoofed," or made up, and the caller likely is located outside the country.
Dewine's office reminds everyone to guard against the scams. Be wary if you get a call saying:
· You owe back taxes.
· You're being investigated for tax fraud.
· The government is going to seize your money or property.
· You will be arrested if you don't pay.
· You must provide information about your tax return.
Anyone who wishes to report a potential scam or unfair business practice should call the Ohio Attorney General's Office at 800-282-0515 or click here.
