Tax problem scams

The scam works like this:

Step 1

You receive a call from someone who says they are from the taxation office or internal revenue service in the country where you are studying.

The caller says that there is a serious problem relating to the payment of tax, for example:

• you have failed to pay tax, or the right amount of tax, and/or
• you have not properly registered to pay tax.

Step 2

The caller threatens you with very serious consequences unless you immediately pay a ‘fine’.

The caller usually requests that the fine is paid by wire transfer, bitcoin, or gift cards.

If you pay the fake ‘fine’ your money is gone.