PSA from the Buckhannon Police Department

BUCKHANNON, WV: The Buckhannon Police Department has received information concerning a scam in the local area. Reports state that an individual is calling and identifying themselves as an IRS agent. The person then comes to the home and tries to collect back taxes.

If a person shows up at your door identifying as an IRS agent, you can always verify their identity and never give them personal information or money on demand.

Red flags of an imposter scam

• Demands immediate payment for a fine or past-due bill, especially through unconventional methods like gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps.
• Insists on cash payments, refuses other methods, or offers a discount for cash.
• Cannot provide a written contract or estimate, or rushes you to sign documents on the spot.
• Offers a deal that seems too good to be true, such as extra supplies left over from a previous job or a special rate.
• Behaves unprofessionally or aggressively, and becomes defensive when you ask for identification, or gets impatient while you verify their story. 

What to do if you suspect a scam

• If you feel unsafe or the person refuses to leave after you’ve asked them to, contact your local police immediately by calling 911.
• Report the suspicious activity to the local police and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• Inform your neighbors and warn them about the scammer operating in the area.
  
  ###