SCAM ALERT: The IRS Phone scam is active again in San Luis Obispo County.

SAN LUIS OBISPO - The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office says that it has received 11 reports in the last 10 days from people who say they received a phone call from someone who identifies themselves as a representative of the IRS. 

The caller proceeds to tell them they owe money to the IRS and they must pay promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer, or they could face jail time. In some instances, the caller has stated that a Deputy will be sent to their home if theydon't pay the debt immediately. In many cases, the caller becomes hostile, insulting, and especially aggressive. The caller may call back, even if hung up on. 

You should know - the IRS will NEVER:

·       call to demand immediate payment.

·       demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.

·       ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

·       threaten to bring in law-enforcement to have you arrested for not paying.

Please inform your family and friends about this scam so they can be prepared in the event they receive a call like this.