Several of our local residents and readers report telephone messages from the IRS saying they are filing suit and this is your last opportunity to respond. The AARP Bulletin ran an article on such fraud calls made to seniors.

The IRS website has issued a consumer alert giving taxpayers tips to protect themselves from telephone scam artists calling and pretending to be with the IRS. They may say you owe money or have a refund due. The effort is to get personal information, credit card numbers, etc. The IRS will NEVER call to demand payment. They will NEVER call about taxes owed without first mailing you a bill. They will NEVER ask for debit or credit card numbers over the phone. If you get a call, report the incident to 800-366-4484 or at http://www.tigta.gov. Include the words ‘IRS Telephone Scam’ in your notes. The IRS does not use unsolicited e-mail or text messages or any social media to discuss your taxes. For more information go to http://www.irs.gov and type ‘scam’ in the search box.