For Immediate Release

Wednesday. Feb. 3, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Littleton Police Remind Residents to be Cautious with Private Information During Tax Season

LITTLETON – As residents begin filling out their tax forms this season, Chief Matthew King and the Littleton Police Department remind the community to be careful with private and financial information and to never send money to anyone you do not know.

Scams that have been recorded throughout the state generally involve a person asking for payment in ways that are nearly untraceable. Other reports of tax fraud consist of residents having fraudulent information on their tax returns, or fraudulent tax returns filed under their social security numbers.

Littleton Police suggest residents complete and submit their taxes as soon as possible to give potential scammers less time and opportunity to submit a refund using their information.

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.

“We have received multiple reports of IRS scams and threats where residents have, unfortunately, lost money out of fear and intimidation,” Chief King said. “If you feel that you’re being targeted by the IRS, contact the police department. Any money sent through a wire transfer or debit card cannot be recovered.”

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).

Residents who are concerned about their identity or personal security should call the Littleton Police Department at 978-952-2300.

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