Green County dispatchers have received dozens of calls from citizens reporting automated IRS scam phone messages, demanding payment for overdue taxes. The message instructs the party to call a phone number immediately or risk legal consequences. This is not a new telephone scam tactic, it has been used for years, and particularly during tax season when most citizens are preparing their annual returns.

This news release is being published as a reminder simply because of the large volume of complaints taken recently. The IRS is aware of these scams, and has assured the public that they will not: Call to demand immediate payment. The IRS will not call if you owe taxes without first sending you a bill in the mail. Demand that you pay taxes and not allow you to question or appeal the amount you owe. Require that you pay taxes a certain way. For instance, require that you pay with a prepaid debit card. Ask for your credit or debit card numbers over the phone. Threaten to bring in the police or other agencies to arrest you for not paying.

Citizens should not give out any information and are to hang up immediately. If they believe they may owe taxes, call the IRS at 800-829-1040 to confirm any details with them directly. Further information on this topic is available at http://www.irs.gov.