Multiple Phone Scams Circulate, Including One From Fake Brownsville Utility Company

You Can Help Make Your Elderly Family and Neighbors Aware Of Possible Scams

Darren Doyle, story:
Several different types of phone scams have been circulating throughout the area from various sources claiming to be the IRS and a false utility company.

According to Utilities Clerk Kim Brown from Brownsville City hall, she received word from a Brownsville City water customer who claimed she received one of the suspicious calls. The caller reportedly said the customer's water was going to be shut off unless she called a separate 1-800 number to pay immediately.

"We don't do that," said Brown. "If it's happening to City utility customers, I'm sure it's happening to others." She encouraged residents to check on elderly family and neighbors to relay the scam information.

"You can always call the utility service directly to find out if your past is overdue," she said.

Another scam has also been reported, and the Edmonson Voice has received the same call in our office. The caller says they are from the IRS and that the recipient of their call is being sued for either non-payment of taxes or overdue back-taxes. 

"Thousands of people have lost millions of dollars and their personal information to tax scams," said a statement from the IRS. "Scammers use the regular mail, telephone, or email to set up individuals, businesses, payroll and tax professionals. The IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information. Recognize the telltale signs of a scam."

The IRS also relayed this helpful information as to how you can report a suspected scam or fraud:

"To report tax-related illegal activities, refer to our chart explaining the types of activity and the appropriate forms or other methods to use. You should also report instances of IRS-related phishing attempts and fraud to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 800-366-4484."