Police In Sea Isle City Warning Homeowners About Phone Scams

SEA ISLE CITY, N.J. (CBS) --- Sea Isle City Police are sending out warnings about phone scammers who are trying to rip off residents.

According to police, scam victims are receiving phone calls from people pretending to be from the Internal Revenue Service.

Police say the scammer tells the victim that a warrant has been issued for their arrest for back taxes. The caller claims that taxes must be paid immediately through a credit card, pre-loaded debit card, or wire transfer.

Another scam police warn about involves a call from someone claiming to be a representative from an electric company. The scammer will tell victims that someone is on their way to turn off the power unless they are paid immediately with a credit card.

If you're unsure about the call, just hang up, police say. Officials want to assure residents and potential victims that the IRS will send a letter to inform about back taxes. The IRS will never ask for payment by a credit card or wire transfer over the phone. The electric company will also send out warning notices if you are behind on the bill.

Officials say both scams should be reported to the police department. Sea Isle City Police can be reached at 609-264-4311.

Complaints can also be filed with the Federal Trade Commission at www.FTC.gov.