The El Paso Police Department is warning people about a recurring scam in which the con artists claim to represent the Internal Revenue Service. In this recent go-round, the intended victims are told they owe taxes and must pay immediately.

The usual m.o. is to leave a recorded messages claiming the IRS is filing a lawsuit against you and to call a number.

According to an EPPD press release, those wishing to comply and avoid consequences are transferred to the “accounting department” where arrangements for payment are made. Those who don't are threatened with arrest, seizure of assets, and the suspension of their driver license.

But how do you absolutely know it`s not the IRS calling?

The IRS will contact a person via mail. They don't call, text, or email people. And the IRS doesn’t ask for payment using a pre-paid debit card or wire transfer. They also won’t ask for a credit card number over the phone.

So if you've received a recorded call like this, don`t respond. If you happen to pick up, and the person claims he or she is with the IRS, simply hang up. A choice word or two about what they can do to themselves is optional.

These IRS impostors have been at it for over a year, and scammed people out of an estimated $20 million, according to the federal agency.

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