Police Warn Of Phone Scam Targeting Ventura Taxpayers

VENTURA (CBSLA.com) — Officers warned the public Friday of a recent telephone scam involving suspects disguised as IRS employees that are targeting taxpayers.

According to the Ventura Police Department, at least four victims had received phone calls on Friday from suspects claiming they owed money on taxes or back-taxes.

The callers allegedly demand immediate payment through prepaid credit cards or money wire transfers, officials said.

If victims do not comply, the callers state they will be arrested for non-payment, according to authorities.

Police said that victims described the callers as insulting and felt their hostile actions were part of an effort to scare the victims into making a payment.

Officers urged the public to immediately hang up and not provide any personal information if you suspect that the call may be a part of this scam.

According to the IRS, they will always send taxpayers a written notification of any taxes due through the mail and will never ask for credit card information over the phone.

Authorities said that the callers may be disguising their phone numbers to appear as though they are calling from Washington D.C. on caller ID.

Victims have lost hundreds or thousands of dollars in these types of scams and have even had their identity compromised in some cases, officers said.

IRS officials have provided information regarding what to do if you receive a call and shared preventative measures to take against this scam.

Anyone who may have been victimized by this scam is urged to contact the Ventura Police Department at (805) 339-4400.