Few letters in life are more frightening than I – R – and S; especially when you put them all together.

That’s why scam artists love using them during tax season.

A woman in neighboring Chattooga County, Georgia, has reported to authorities there that she recently received a call from someone claiming to be with the IRS who told her that she owed “back taxes” – and unless she paid immediately, she would be arrested.

Two major problems are evident from the start – #1: the caller wanted to be paid using one of the “pre-paid” cards available at area department stores and #2: IRS Officials will never contact you in such a manner, and demand immediate payment over the phone – that’s not how they conduct business.

The woman gave the telephone number of the caller to authorities – (415) 506-2430 – and when they called the number, all they got was a pre-recorded message for the “Magic Jack”; a device used for making long-distance calls through your computer.

Fortunately, the woman saw through the scam and refused to fall for it.

Remember – never give out any personal, private information over the phone to someone who has contacted you, no matter what their story is. If the IRS is really trying to find you – don’t worry, they will.

(AM1180 Chattooga County Radio)