The Carter County Sheriff’s office is looking into reports of local residents being targeted by a possible scam where callers are claiming to work for the federal government.
“The Carter County Sheriff’s Office is currently examining statements by citizens in reference to phone calls received asking for funds or monies to be sent regarding a possible tax lien by the Internal Revenue Service,” said Carter County Sheriff Dexter Lunceford, adding these phone calls have been identified as being linked to a scam.
As part of the scam, the caller identifies themselves as agents with the IRS and will supply a phony name and possibly even a badge number in order to seem legitimate, Lunceford said.
“The IRS or any governmental agency will not operate in this manner nor will they seek fines or funds by phone,” Lunceford said. “If you receive such a phone call asking for you to provide banking or credit/debit card information in order to satisfy an alleged tax lien, please contact your local police or sheriff’s department and advise them of this activity.”
Anyone who is concerned they may possibly owe taxes to the IRS as part of a tax lien can contact the local IRS office at 423-610-7050 or toll-free at 1-800-829-1040.