My husband is getting flooded with voice mail on his Apple phone with a generic "It is URGENT that we speak to you about owed taxes" robo-message. Seems to be a new attack vector that has come out in mid-October.
- Here in RI, all of the numbers are originating from 833, 855 and 866 exchanges
- All of the robo-messages are the same context, demanding that we contact 1-833-766-1884 to address the matter.
I did a simple Internet search on that phone number, and all of the hits indicate it is a scam that started last month.
Things to pay attention to before you do anything else.
Several details in this voicemail deserve attention which include:
- Unspecified tax debt: The message refers to past-due taxes without providing enough information to identify a specific liability.
- Pressure to act quickly: Statements about expired deadlines and increasing interest encourage recipients to respond before verifying the claim.
- Vague resolution program: The caller promises a resolution but does not explain the program's eligibility requirements, terms, or legal authority.
- A callback number supplied in the message: Recipients are directed to contact the same number rather than independently locating an official government contact.
- Potential requests for sensitive information: If (you pick up the phone and it is a LIVE person) the person answering asks for personal or financial details or Social Security number (SSN) before establishing their identity and legitimacy, stop the conversation.
- Threats or guaranteed results: Any subsequent claim that immediate payment will prevent arrest, guarantee debt cancellation, or automatically stop legal action should be treated as a serious warning sign.
Don't be duped. Be smart.
Onward,
Rade
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