Michael J. d’Entremont
Chief of Police
600 High St.
Dedham, MA 02026
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Dedham Police Remind Residents to be Cautious with Private Information During Tax Season
DEDHAM – With tax season now upon us, Chief Michael d’Entremont and the Dedham Police Department are reminding residents to be careful with private and financial information to avoid becoming victims of IRS scams and tax fraud.
Known scams that have targeted residents throughout the state generally originate from someone the person does not know, who asks for payment in ways that are nearly untraceable. Other reports include citizens having fraudulent information on their tax returns, or fraudulent tax returns filed under their social security numbers.
Dedham Police advise residents to complete and submit their taxes as soon as possible to give potential scammers less time and opportunity to submit a refund using their information, which police received several reports of last year.
In other instances, scammers have been known to call residents claiming to be from the IRS or another government body. The “agent” informs victims that they did not pay, or incorrectly filed their taxes and now owe money to the IRS, which must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer. If victims refuse to cooperate, they are then threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license.
“It’s always best to be overly cautious when you receive a call from anyone you don’t know, even if it appears to be from a credible government official,” Chief d’Entremont said. “If anyone threatens to arrest you due to unpaid taxes, immediately hang up and call the police department.”
Additionally, residents should never give out their social security numbers, dates of birth, or any other private or financial information to someone whose identity is in question. The IRS will always send taxpayers a written notification of any tax due via the U.S. mail and will never ask for credit card, debit card or prepaid card information over the phone.
If there is any doubt, call the IRS official hotline at 800-829-1040 or 800-829-4059 (TDD for the hearing impaired).
Any residents who are concerned about their identity or personal security should call the Dedham Police Department at 781-751-9338.
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