It seems as though it’s becoming ‘par for the course’ these days, the IRS Scam has made an “unwelcome return” to Cherokee County. We’ve received a number of calls from residents who are saying they’ve received calls from someone claiming to be with the Internal Revenue Service telling the person they owe the IRS money and unless they pay immediately, they will have you arrested.

The latest attempt to take advantage of an unsuspected victim came to us on Thursday morning when the intended target got an opportunity to record the voicemail left by “Officer Michael Sinclair” with the IRS.

We tried to call the number back and wouldn’t you know it, no one answered…surprise, surprise.

Two things; Fact #1 – you’re not going to be arrested, because Fact #2, they’re NOT with the IRS.

The IRS doesn’t contact you by phone; if you do have an issue with previous tax returns you will be notified by U.S. Mail; and although they may be intimidating, real IRS representatives will not threaten you with arrest – it just doesn’t work that way.

If you DO owe the IRS anything, you’ll be contacted through certified mail and not by phone – text – or e-mail, etc., etc.

The IRS also does NOT threaten you with arrest; it simply doesn’t work that way.

If you receive such a call, just hang up and forget about it.

Another day.  Another scam.