Sheriff's Warning -- Tax Scam In McHenry County

The McHenry County Sheriff's Office recently received a report of a tax scam. We are sharing this information in an effort to help protect the citizens of our county.

The victim was contacted by someone posing to be "James Anderson" from the tax audit revenue services.  The caller advised the victim that she owed back taxes from 2008 in the amount of $2698.00.  He directed the victim to go to the nearest CVS Pharmacy and purchase a Green Dot Money Pak pre-paid card in the amount of $500 USC. After purchasing the card "James Anderson" called back and advised the victim to scratch the back of the card and give him the numbers over the phone.  The victim received several more phone calls from James advising she needed to pay him more to settle her debt.  The victim purchased more cards totaling an amount of $1500.00 USC.

For more information on this specific scam follow the IRS's link: http://www.irs.gov/uac/Newsroom/IRS-Warns-of-Pervasive-Telephone-Scam .  Additional information on Tax scams can be found at: www.irs.gov/uac/Identity-Protection-Tips .

The McHenry County Sheriff's Office will be hosting an Identity Theft forum on Monday, March 10, 2014 from 11:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. at Senior Services at 110 Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake.  Meet with representatives from the Sheriff's Office to learn about current scams happening right here in McHenry County and what you can do to protect yourself.

"Those who have become a victim of a scam or identity theft are encouraged to make a report with the McHenry County Sheriff's Office or their local police jurisdiction," stated Undersheriff Andrew Zinke.