Feb 8, 2008 7:30 pm US/Eastern
Avoiding The Tax Rebate Scams
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
President Bush hasn't signed the tax rebate bill yet, but some people are already making money off the legislation-scammers.
As concerns over the economy rise, people are more and more desperate to get the relief the tax refund will bring. Scam artists are taking advantage and everyone is a potential victim.
In the last few weeks Florida's consumer services helpline has lit up with complaints about tax rebate scams.
In one of them- a group calling themselves The Federal Commission Refund Department promises to expedite your refund for $29.
Mark Fagan, spokesperson for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, said the crooks won't just clean out your bank account, they will also steal your identity.
"As a matter of fact, they're so kind about it, give them you're bank account number and they'll withdraw the $29, no fuss for you," said Mark Fagan of Dept. of Ag. & Consumer Services. "What you're doing at that point is giving them access to your bank account. They'll clean out your checking account, your savings account."
Fagan said you're not only losing $29, but you are losing everything when you give out your personal information over the phone.
In a similar scam, someone calls pretending to be from the IRS and asks for your personal information, so they can check if you qualify for a rebate.
Fagan says to keep in mind: IRS never asks for personal information, if you get a call – hang-up, if you get an e-mail – delete it.
If you think you've been the victim of a scam- you should contact your bank. You can also file a complaint with the State online or over the phone.
To learn more about avoiding scams click here.
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