Outsmart Fraudsters This Tax Season

It’s the time of year to become extra vigilant against scammers and fraudsters who use tax season processes in an attempt to gain access to personal and/or financial information. Westerville Division of Police (WPD) investigators say thieves often use fear tactics to prey on the unsuspecting.

“Typically what we see with tax-related fraud starts with phishing attempts, which means posing as a tax employee with an agency via email or a phone call,” said Lt. Justin Alloway, WPD Investigations Bureau.

“Just like all other scams, we want residents to be exceptionally cautious when it comes to unexpected communication, solicitations or demands about your taxes.”

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) says the agency sees phishing scams often carried out through unsolicited email and/or websites that trick victims into providing personal and financial information. Emails often direct users to update e-file information, then scammers collect user information on a site that closely resembles the IRS site.

As the collector of local income taxes, the City of Westerville aims to empower its citizens with the information needed to avoid being victimized by fraudulent activity.

If you receive a phone call regarding taxes from someone claiming to be from the IRS or the City of Westerville Income Tax Division:

• View your tax account information or review payment options at IRS.gov

• Call the City of Westerville Income Tax Division at (614) 901-6420 or visit at 64 E. Walnut St. to discuss your account, return or statement.

• If the matter pertains to your federal return and you have a legitimate need to contact the IRS, consult their website to find phone numbers and resource links.

Suspicious Calls and Emails

To protect yourself from suspicious calls, explore easy-to-install call-blocking software for smartphones. View options on the Consumers Reports, Consumer’s Union and Cellular Telephone Industries Association websites. Never reply to suspicious emails or open their attachments.

According to the IRS, the agency does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information. Sensitive information includes PIN numbers, passwords or similar access information for credit cards, banks or other financial accounts. The City of Westerville follows the same guidelines and does not make unsolicited requests for personal or financial information to complete tax returns.

Phishing can result in major losses and identity theft. If you suspect you are a victim of phishing, call WPD at (614) 882-7444 to or forward the email, as is, to phishing@irs.gov. report the incident. Learn more proactive measures at IRS.gov

Did you know? The City of Westerville will prepare your local income tax return for free. Visit www.westerville.org/incometax for more information.