The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue (PDR) cautions business owners to be on the lookout for fraudulent letters impersonating the agency. These scam letters demand business owners turn over their accounting records which could put private information at risk.According to PDR: “The goal of this ploy is to trick unsuspecting taxpayers into providing sensitive financial information, which the criminals behind the scheme can use for a number of illicit activities that could seriously harm a business’ financial standing. “Revenue Secretary Dan Hassell urged business owners “to be on high alert if they receive a suspicious notice that includes the Department of Revenue name and logo. If you have any doubt at all about the legitimacy of a notice from the department, please use the contact information listed on our website, revenue.pa.gov. This is the best way to ensure you are speaking with a legitimate staff member at the Department of Revenue.”The scam letter uses official PDR name and logo to threaten business owners with “alleged violation of delinquent sales tax liability” unless they hand over accounting records provided by an attorney or CPA.
“Providing this information allows the scammers to comb through the accounting records for sensitive information such as bank account numbers and other financial data, which could be used to make unauthorized transactions, request fraudulent tax refunds, and even apply for loans under the name of the business.” PDR said….
