GROSSE POINTE WOODS, Mich. – A man reported to be a fake Internal Revenue Service agent in Grosse Pointe Woods Friday morning is actually a real IRS special agent doing his job.
According to the IRS, criminal investigation special agents are federal law enforcement officers. They routinely make unannounced visits to homes and businesses to conduct interviews, take witness statements and gather evidence when enforcing tax laws.
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The IRS said the person who reported the man was right to report someone they thought was an impersonator, and reminded taxpayers to be vigilant in their efforts to avoid scams.
- If someone believes they have been scammed, they can make a report to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.
- According to the IRS, things scammers do that IRS agents will not include:
- Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes.
- Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
- Demand that taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
- Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.