In light of a recent spike in reports of an Internal Revenue Service scam, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey is offering tips to consumers.
A press release from Morrisey's office on Thursday notes that nearly a thousand scam reports have been made since early Wednesday. The release "strongly urges" anyone who receives a call from someone claiming to be with the IRS to ignore such calls and voicemails.
"It's important to recognize the IRS will not call consumers or demand immediate payment over the phone," the release says.
Any victims of the scam should report the incident to the U.S. Inspector General's Office on Tax Administration at www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml. Complainants can also email that office at Complaints@tigta.treas.gov or phishing@irs.gov.
Such scams usually begin with a phone call or voicemail from an IRS imposter. They often threaten lawsuits or arrest if the consumer won't follow instructions, according to the release.
Scammers also will use common names, the last four digits of a Social Security number, out-of-state phone numbers, automated calling machines and face government badge numbers.
To reach the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Divison, call 800-368-8808.