While not exclusive to tax return season, Western Lebanon County Regional Police have recently seen an uptick in scam related calls.  Victims are contacted by text message, email or phone call.  The victims are "made aware" of a problem they need to fix.  The most common scams seen are, unpaid turnpike tolls, a family member who has been hospitalized or arrested, your computer has a virus or a rental property that is not actually up for rent.  Victims are then pressured or encouraged to give up sensitive information such as bank account numbers or social security numbers.  In many cases, victims are told they need to pay for a service, but can only do so by obtaining gift cards or making wire transfers from convenience stores.  

     Legitimate businesses and government entities do not operate like this.  If you do not recognize a phone number, do not answer.  If a voice mail does get left, you can take your time and determine whether the call was legitimate.  Never click on links in text messages or emails if you cannot verify the sender.  Take time and scrutinize the email address and web addresses to avoid fakes.  If you are ever unsure, please contact your local police department. ask someone you trust or directly contact the business or government office.