An IRS scam is circulating in Okaloosa County. The con-artist calls or emails someone saying they owe money to the IRS and gives them directions on paying by getting a "Green Dot Card." The con-artist then informs residents that if they do not pay the money owed today, they will be arrested.
There are more scams concerning tax returns circulating involving paying money owed, rebates, audits and variations of the IRS name with companies or individuals using the IRS acronym, but with different words (ex. Internal Refund Service).
If you receive an email from someone claiming to be from the IRS forward the email to phishing@irs.gov.
So, how can you spot scams? The IRS offers these tips:
• The IRS will not contact you by telephone or e-mail.
• The IRS will use the mailing address you place on your return.
• Use direct deposit into your checking account for tax returns.
If you are contacted by someone claiming to be with the IRS, hang up and call the IRS at 1-800-366-4484.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: IRS scams reported in Okaloosa