Fake government fines and threats
Sample content for development. This profile will be reviewed by DTI before launch.
How it works
Scammers pose as tax offices, immigration departments, police or courts. They use fear, threatening arrest, deportation or frozen accounts, and demand immediate payment in unusual ways.
What it can look like
Incoming call
Tax Office (shown on caller ID)
+1 (555) 019-0020
"This is a final notice regarding unpaid taxes in your name. A warrant will be issued today unless you settle the balance. Press 1 to speak with an officer."
Illustration. Names and numbers are fictional.
Warning signs
- Threats of arrest or legal action unless you pay immediately
- Payment by gift card, crypto or wire transfer
- Being told not to hang up or tell anyone
- A caller who knows some of your details, to seem legitimate
Common tactics
- Spoofed caller ID showing an official-looking number
- Official-sounding badge numbers and case references
- Pre-recorded 'final notice' calls
What to do
- Hang up. Government agencies do not demand payment by gift card or crypto
- Contact the agency using contact details from its official website
- Report the call to your official fraud reporting service
Reporting
Report the message or account to the platform it came through, then report to your country's official fraud reporting service. If money or banking details are involved, contact your bank or payment provider first.