Fraud & Cybersecurity Awareness

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STOP AND THINK: Protect Yourself from IRS Telephone Scams

09/08/2025

By: Fidelity Bank

STOP AND THINK: Protect Yourself from IRS Telephone Scams

As part of our Fraud Awareness Month series, Fidelity Bank is spotlighting common scams that affect individuals and families across our community. This week’s focus: the IRS Telephone Scam, a scheme that continues to deceive taxpayers with fear and urgency.

Spotlight: How the IRS Telephone Scam Works

Scammers posing as IRS agents contact victims by phone and claim they owe back taxes that must be paid immediately. These criminals often use sophisticated tactics to appear legitimate, including:

  • Spoofing caller ID to make it look like the call is coming from the IRS toll-free number.
  • Using fake IRS badge numbers and common names to sound official.
  • Knowing personal details, such as the last four digits of the victim’s Social Security number.
  • Sending fake IRS emails to back up their phone calls.

Victims are frequently threatened with jail time, loss of their driver’s license, or even arrest. To make matters worse, scammers often call back pretending to be from the local police or DMV, further pressuring victims into paying.

STOP AND THINK: How to Stay Safe

  • The IRS always sends written notices via U.S. Mail. They do not initiate collections by phone.
  • The IRS will never ask for credit card, debit card, or prepaid card information over the phone.
  • The IRS does not use email, text messages, or social media to request personal or financial information.
  • If you receive a suspicious call about unpaid taxes, hang up and call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.

Protecting Your Peace of Mind

Scammers use fear to trick people into making hasty decisions. By remembering to STOP AND THINK, you can avoid falling victim to these intimidation tactics and protect your financial security.

At Fidelity Bank, we’re committed to providing resources that help you safeguard your money and stay alert to fraud. Stay with us all month long as we continue to share tips during Fraud Awareness Month.

 

More in our STOP AND THINK Fraud Awareness Series

Learn how to spot scams, protect your finances, and stay one step ahead of fraudsters:

Stay alert, stay informed — and always STOP AND THINK.