Paso Robles police warn of IRS phone scam
–The Paso Robles Police Department is warning the public about a recent phone scam which victimized a local resident. This scam, known as the ‘IRS phone scam,’ preys on victims by intimidating them into believing they owe taxes or face fines/imprisonment for failure to pay these taxes. In this case, the scammer is also claiming to be an officer or detective from the PRPD in order to further intimidate the victim.
If you are contacted by phone by a person claiming to be a PRPD officer or detective, the PRPD urges you to verify that person’s claim by contacting the PRPD at (805) 237-6464. Be aware that these criminals can possibly have a legitimate number show up on your caller ID via a process known as ‘caller ID spoofing.’ So, do not assume the caller is legitimate just because the PRPD number shows up on your caller ID.
The PRPD encourages members of the public to share this information with your friends, neighbors and relatives. If you learn of a person who may have been victimized please have them contact the PRPD.
Persons with information about this crime are encouraged to contact the PRPD with information. Those wishing to remain anonymous who have information about this crime, or other crimes, are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers 24-hour hotline at 549-STOP or by texting “SLOTIPS plus your message” to CRIMES (274637).
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